Sugar Beet Nematodes: Their Occurrence, Epidemiology, and Management in Ukraine

Abstract

This chapter describes plant parasitic nematode species of sugar beet, their occurrence, biology, and harmfulness, and presents a system of integrated nematode prevention and control methods for sugar beet under Ukrainian cultivation conditions. It is shown that the beet cyst nematode (H. schachtii) is by far the most important one in terms of spread all over the country (18 regions), plant damage, economic losses, and research and monitoring activities. It is followed by the stem nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) and the needle nematode (Longidorus elongatus). Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) and stubby root nematodes (Trichodorus and Paratrichodorus spp.) are of lesser importance and their occurrence in Ukraine less documented. The false root-knot nematode (Nacobbus aberrans) is not known to occur in Ukraine. The spread of these nematodes is facilitated by the reuse of sugar factory waste (sludge, washing water, heads, leaves, and root tips), especially when returned to the farm land or used as cattle fodder. Furthermore, wind, animals, man, and his machinery play a role. A system of prevention and control adapted to the Ukrainian cultivation conditions has been developed over the years and is presented here.