In Vitro Analysis of Nematicides and Fungicides on Belonolaimus Longicaudatus.

The control of nematodes, specifically plant-parasitic nematodes has proved difficult in recent years. Many chemicals previously used as nematicides are detrimental to non-target organisms and have been removed from the market. This has left growers and golf course superintendents with little recourse to manage populations of plant-parasitic nematodes that are causing economic damage. As such, the search for alternatives to these chemicals is imperative. This study was focused on the management of sting nematode (Belonolaimus longicaudatus), a major pest of turfgrasses. Sting nematode populations from three different golf courses and an agronomic field in North Carolina were studied. Four different pesticides were analyzed using a bioassay that monitored motility of the nematodes. Two known nematicides, abamectin and fluopyram, and two SDHI fungicides, fluxapyroxad and penthiopyrad, were tested. Abamectin was the fastest acting product, with nematode populations affected in the first 24 hours. The two registered SDHI fungicides were also effective nematicides, although at higher concentrations than the two nematicides. The results of the study also indicated that sting nematode management by these chemicals tested varied greatly by location. This emphasizes the need to assess each population of sting nematode on a case-by-case basis to ensure proper chemical control, as certain chemicals may be more effective given golf course soil parameters. This complicates the search for another comprehensive nematicide.

See more from this Division: C05 Turfgrass Science
See more from this Session: Turf Management: Pests Poster (includes student competition)

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