Nematode Problems in Fruit Tree Nurseries in Libya

Abstract

A survey of some fruit tree nurseries in Libya indicated the presence of seventeen genera of plant parasitic nematodes. The important endoparasites. Meloidogyne spp and Pratylenchus spp were widely distributed. Almost every nursery surveyed was infested with at least one of these endoparasities. The citrus nematode,Ty/enc/iu/us semipenetrans was also found associated with twig dieback of citrus seedlings.

In the present survey, nine species viz. Aphelenchoides bicaudatus, Longidorus sylphus, Macropost honia curvata, Paurodontella sp„ Pratylenchoides spp, Scutylenchus mamillatus. Rotylenchus goodeyi, Safianema siddiqii and Xiphinema italiae are recorded for the first time in Libya. During 1979-80. the losses due to discarded seedlings of Peach, almond, and grapes infected by M. javanica, and M. incognita ranged from 16-100% in many nurseries.