How Deep Do Nematodes Go? (Video)
When building a nematode soil sampling program in potato fields, a commonly asked question is, “How deep do I sample?”
Sampling depth is an important factor in the likelihood of detecting nematodes through soil sampling. However, while the horizontal movement of nematodes in soil has been widely studied, research on their vertical movement is lacking.
Hans Mejia, botany and plant pathology master’s student at Oregon State University, shows how his research with PAPAS will give us more data about the depth distribution of differing nematode species. The PAPAS project also evaluates how soil properties and seasonality impact nematode distribution and movement.
The most effective sampling strategy is one designed in collaboration with a nematologist or diagnostician. PAPAS offers free resources to help, including a nationwide directory of nematode diagnostic laboratories: PotatoNematodes.org/diagnostic-labs.
The PAPAS project was created to help the industry move from reacting to nematode infestations toward prevention. By combining new management methods with precision data tools, we’re minimizing potato crop losses and protecting profitability — giving growers and their advisors increasingly precise guidance on how to sample smarter and manage better.
