Resistance and Tolerance of Landrace Wheat in Fields Infested with Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei

Abstract

Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei reduce wheat yields in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Resistant landrace cultivars have been identified using controlled environments. Field resistance and tolerance characteristics were compared over 3 years and two locations for four spring wheat cultivars: the susceptible ‘Alpowa’ and ‘Louise’ and the resistant landraces AUS28451 and Persia 20. Proportions and densities of P. neglectus and P. thornei differed across seasons and locations. Resistance was evaluated by comparing preplant and postharvest densities of nematodes in soil. Tolerance was evaluated by comparing grain yield and grain quality in plots treated or untreated by the nematicide aldicarb. Alpowa was susceptible and intolerant, Louise was susceptible and moderately tolerant, AUS28451 was resistant and intolerant, and Persia 20 was moderately susceptible and moderately intolerant. The species dominance shifted from P. neglectus to P. thornei in one field over a period of 3 years in apparent response to cultivars and crops planted. Estimates of economic loss caused by Pratylenchus spp. ranged from $8 to $20/ha. Economic benefits appear to be achievable by developing a spring wheat genotype with tolerance plus resistance, such as with a cross between AUS28451 and Louise.