A SURVEY OF ROOT KNOT AND CLOVER CYST NEMATODES IN DRY HILL COUNTRY

Abstract

Clover cyst nematode (Heterodera trifolii Goffart, 1932) and root knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) were found throughout summer-dry hill country in the North Island. Clover cyst nematode was found at 50% of sites in the corresponding South Island hill country regions sampled but no root knot nematode was found at South Island sites. The implication for white clover breeding programmes is discussed. Keywords: Pasture, dry hill country, clover cyst nematode, root knot nematode, Heterodera trifolii, Meloidogyne sp., white clover, Trifolium repens.