Pacific Pests, Pathogens, Weeds & Pesticides - Online edition

Pacific Pests, Pathogens, Weeds & Pesticides

Ginger burrowing nematode (161)


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Summary

  • Worldwide distribution. In tropics and sub-tropics. The nematode has a large host range, including: banana (see Fact Sheet no. 257), betel nut, black pepper, coconut, coffee, giant swamp taro (see Fact Sheet no. 203), and tea. An important disease.
  • Nematodes enter roots and young rhizomes, killing the roots, and causing brown sunken areas on rhizome that later join together. Leaves are yellow, stunted and die early.
  •  Spread is in soil water, soil on footwear, machinery, and in rhizomes used for planting.
  • Yield losses of 40%, and damage continues in storage.
  • Cultural control: clean 'seed' from healthy crops; treat seed with hot water (51°C for 10 mins.); apply manures; weed; 3-4-year crop rotation.
  • Chemical control: none recommended.

Common Name

Ginger burrowing nematode

Scientific Name

Radopholus similis


AUTHOR Grahame Jackson
Information from Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (2013) Final import risk analysis report for fresh ginger from Fiji. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra (https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/risk-analysis/memos/2013/ba2013-03-final-ira-ginger-fiji); and from CABI (2013) Radopholus similis (burrowing nematode). Crop Protection Compendium. (https://www.cabi.org/cpc/datasheet/46685#toBigImage17653). Photos 1&2 Mike smith, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Maroochy Research Station, Nambour, Queensland.

Produced with support from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research under project PC/2010/090: Strengthening integrated crop management research in the Pacific Islands in support of sustainable intensification of high-value crop production, implemented by the University of Queensland and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community.

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