Population Dynamics of Pratylenchus penetrans in Relation to Soil Texture and Root Biomass of Winter Cereals

Abstract

Population dynamics of Pratylenchus penetrans were investigated in relation to soil texture and root biomass of winter cereal crops to understand factors influencing nematode proliferation and host interaction. Field and greenhouse assessments were conducted across soils varying in sand, silt, and clay composition, and nematode population densities were quantified in relation to cereal root development stages. Results demonstrated that soil texture significantly influenced nematode distribution, with sandy soils supporting higher population densities due to increased pore space and enhanced mobility, while clay-rich soils restricted movement and reduced infection rates. Root biomass of winter cereals showed a strong positive correlation with P. penetrans population levels, indicating that increased root availability provided greater feeding sites and facilitated nematode reproduction. Seasonal analysis revealed peak nematode activity coinciding with active root growth phases, emphasizing the close synchrony between host development and nematode life cycle. Regression analysis highlighted root biomass as a stronger predictor of population increase compared to soil texture alone, although combined effects of both factors produced the highest infestation levels. The study also indicated that continuous cereal cultivation in favorable soil types may exacerbate nematode buildup over successive seasons, increasing the risk of yield decline. These findings underscore the importance of considering both edaphic properties and host root dynamics in predicting lesion nematode outbreaks. The results provide valuable insights for developing integrated nematode management strategies, including crop rotation and soil health improvement practices aimed at reducing P. penetrans population pressure in winter cereal systems.