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Nematode populations in South Africa seem like growing in each prevalence and species kind. Farmers are due to this fact cautioned to implement full built-in pest administration methods to forestall whole crop losses.
Photograph: USDA
In keeping with Prof Driekie Fourie, nematode specialist at Syngenta, the affect of nematodes is commonly ignored and poses a far better drawback than many farmers could realise. The issue additionally extends past conventional hotspot areas, having a big impact on crop yields.
“Sadly, as soon as nematodes are identified within the soil, eradication turns into virtually unattainable.
This leads not solely to substantial yield losses, however threatens sustainable crop manufacturing,” Fourie stated.
Fourie’s analysis exhibits that roughly 12% of yield losses in South Africa are attributable to nematodes, with extremely infested fields experiencing losses of as much as 60% or extra.
Fourie stated that ectoparasite inhabitants densities seem like on the rise in conservation farming areas. The emergence of recent nematode species, just like the extremely pathogenic root-knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii, additional highlights the necessity to conduct extra analysis on these organisms.
She stated whereas there had been enhancements in educational understanding of nematodes, there may be nonetheless inadequate information on the farm stage. Local weather-change can also be posing issues as altering climate patterns affect nematode populations.
The analysis of each Fourie and Dr Mieke Daneel, a nematologist on the Agricultural Analysis Council, exhibits planting cowl crops which are poor hosts to nematodes is efficient in lowering pest numbers.
Daneel pointed to Tolgar Rhodes grass and Turf Saver Tall Fescue for the summer time rainfall area. Within the winter rainfall area, she steered Marigold, Esterosa Saia Oats and Scala Brown Mustard for efficient nematode management.
Fourie, nonetheless, cautioned that crop rotation techniques should be rigorously managed since some may promote nematode construct up.
“Growers have to be educated about nematodes and their potential affect on root and soil well being,” stated Fourie.
“Figuring out and understanding the presence of recent nematode species is essential for efficient administration and analysis. By changing into extra conscious of and investing in analysis and administration methods, South African growers can mitigate the damaging results of nematodes and enhance agricultural sustainability,” she added.
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