Population dynamics of potato cyst nematodes in relation to temperature

Abstract

Population dynamics of potato cyst nematodes Globodera rostochiensis (Woll.) Skarbilovich and G. pallida (Stone) and their interactions with potato plants are not sufficiently described to explain changes in population dynamics and yield reduction among seasons and locations. This thesis describes experiments to clarify the mechanisms of PCN population increase and associated damage to potato primarily in relation to temperature. The research was undertaken in controlled environments and in the field to examine the impact of temperature and mixed populations on the life cycle and population dynamics of potato cyst nematodes. The data will be used to develop a model that relates the PCN life cycle with temperature. Soil temperature data were also obtained from different UK locations within potato drills during the growing season to provide a context for the model. Results from this thesis indicate that both species of PCN, Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida, are likely to increase more rapidly and in greater numbers with susceptible cultivars if soil temperatures increase in the future and regions of the UK with relatively higher soil temperatures are more likely to have higher and faster population multiplication of PCN.

Date of Award	2014
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Dundee
Sponsors	The James Hutton Institute
Supervisor	Paul Birch (Supervisor) & Vivian C. Blok (Supervisor)