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Publication Date

1977

Description

Nematodes in sandy soils of the southeastern U.S.A. are a major factor in reducing forage yields and stands of cool season perennial grass­es such as orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L.). Soil treat­ment with methyl bromide or carbofuran (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranyl methyl­carbamate) nematicide has resulted in 30 to over 300 % increases in forage yields of these perennial grasses and of cool season annual grasses such as rye (Secale cereale L.) and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.). • Root pruning by the nematodes reduces effec­tive rooting depth in terms of water and nutrient absorption capability even during short drought periods. Nematodes identified as important factors on these grasses are stunt (Tylencho­rhynchus claytoni Steiner), lance (Hoplolaimus galeatus (Cobb) Thorne), and stubby root (Trichodorus christiei Allen). Breeding for host plant resistance to nematodes will be necessary to improve forage yields and extend geograph­ical range of these grass species.

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Soil nematodes and forage production of some cool season grasses

Nematodes in sandy soils of the southeastern U.S.A. are a major factor in reducing forage yields and stands of cool season perennial grass­es such as orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L.). Soil treat­ment with methyl bromide or carbofuran (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranyl methyl­carbamate) nematicide has resulted in 30 to over 300 % increases in forage yields of these perennial grasses and of cool season annual grasses such as rye (Secale cereale L.) and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.). • Root pruning by the nematodes reduces effec­tive rooting depth in terms of water and nutrient absorption capability even during short drought periods. Nematodes identified as important factors on these grasses are stunt (Tylencho­rhynchus claytoni Steiner), lance (Hoplolaimus galeatus (Cobb) Thorne), and stubby root (Trichodorus christiei Allen). Breeding for host plant resistance to nematodes will be necessary to improve forage yields and extend geograph­ical range of these grass species.