Potato Cyst Nematodes: Biology, Distribution and Control

Abstract

Potato Cyst Nematodes: Biology, Distribution and Control. R. J. Marks and B. B. Brodie (eds). 16·5 × 24.5 cm. 320 pp. Wallingford, UK: CABI [HTTP:// HTTP://www.cabi.org], 1998. £65. ISBN-085199-274-9 (hardback). This is a very useful compilation of information on the economically important potato cyst nematodes, Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida. These two species are widely distributed and cause significant monetary loss and are therefore the subject of much scientific investigation. This book presents much information about the origin, distribution and biology of these persistent, complex organisms. In addition, it provides a synthesis of current information on detection and identification, control options, utilization of resistance and worldwide distributions. It follows a logical progression and is suitable for nematolo-gists, plant pathologists and quarantine and regulation authorities, as well as other workers interested in crop protection. Both the editors and the authors of the chapters are highly respected for their individual contributions to the knowledge of potato cyst nematodes. This book is attractive and uses a very easy-to-read font. The chapters are clearly organized into logical sections, which are clearly demarcated with bold headings. It has eight very attractive full colour plates, with a total of 32 figures, plus a very informative, but somewhat small, chart illustrating a theoretical breeding program for incorporating PCN resistance into potato cultivars. Two of the pictures (Plate 3, C and D) are oriented so that an optical illusion causes the ridges of the pattern to appear as valleys and vice versa. The viewer can more easily interpret these images by turning them upside down. Each individual chapter contains additional drawings and black and white photographs. Most of these illustrations add much to the printed text; however, a few of the drawings are too simplistic or poor representations of reality. The last section of this book, on the worldwide status of the potato cyst nematodes, contains more than I expected. These chapters not only contain information about the distribution of PCN around the world, but also contain useful details about its co-evolution with the potato, dissemination, distribution, diversity of races, biology, lifecycle, containment, chemical control, interactions, and management. This valuable resource book contains numerous relevant literature citations that appear to be complete and timely. The index is well organized into the main subjects, with numerous relevant subcategories, which makes it easy to find the information contained within. Potato Cyst Nematodes: Biology, Distribution and Control is worth the monetary cost.