Investigation on the population dynamics of Helicotylenchus pseudorobustus and its relationship with soil factors in tomato fields

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the premier vegetables in the world and is widely cultivated globally. As it is a relatively short-duration crop with a high yield, it is economically attractive, and the area under cultivation is increasing. Plant-parasitic nematodes are some of the most important plant pathogens in tomato farms. Helicotylenchus pseudorobustus is one of the most important plant-parasitic nematodes in tomato fields. Therefore, understanding the population dynamics of H. pseudorobustus on the tomato field assists the farmer in managing them and having better yields. In this study, the soil was sampled in 2022. Identification and determination of nematodes were made in the Aquaculture Research Unit, University of Limpopo. The properties of soils infected with this nematode, including pH and EC, were investigated during the investigation of this nematode in the Dalmatia region. The population of H. pseudorobustus was counted in 100 grams of soil in each season, and soil characteristics were also analyzed at the same time. The results in different seasons of the year showed that the range of pH changes during the years of investigation was between 7.5 and 7.7, and the range of EC changes was between 1.3 and 2.0 dS/m. A comparison of EC and pH changes with population changes showed that the population increased approximately in the months when soil salinity decreased. In addition, as the pH increases, the population of H. pseudorobustus also increases. However, no significant relationship was found between the values of pH, EC, and changes in the population of H. pseudorobustus nematode throughout the year.