The use of liquid swine manure for the control of potato cyst nematode through soil disinfestation in laboratory conditions

Abstract In this laboratory study the effect of liquid swine manure (LSM) on Globodera rostochiensis was evaluated. The LSM was applied to 500 g nematode-infested soil at 0.4, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0% (v/w), equivalent to 31, 155, 310 and 465 kg of N ha −1 , in closed and open containers (microcosms sealed (S) and open (O)). The results showed that LSM in closed containers enriched the volatile fatty acids (VFAs) through partial anaerobic incubation process. Bacterial- and fungal-feeding nematodes predominated, while the least opportunistic groups had a very low occurrence. The LSM in (S) significantly decreased cyst nematode populations and percent egg hatching in contrast with opened ones (O), increasing some chemical parameters related to soil fertility. Hatching tests showed that individual VFA vary in their lethality to G. rostochiensis. Acetic and propionic acids were the most toxic, reducing hatching most effectively and irreversibly. Results suggest that soil disinfestation on laboratory tests with LSM, is an efficient way for the reduction of G. rostochiensis populations in acidic soils, due to the VFAs nematicidal action. To address management alternatives, field studies would be needed that compared these materials to the current management practices, and demonstrated that they are competitive in the field.