7/2/2013 - By Harrell's

Researchers at the University of Florida, led by Dr. William T. Crow, have recently conducted a study to determine the effect of Sting and Spiral nematodes on the root length of selected seashore paspalum cultivars. They were also interested in the population dynamics of sting and spiral nematodes in a seashore paspalum root environment.

The two sequential experiments were conducted under glasshouse conditions in pots using seven commercially available cultivars of seashore paspalum. The cultivars used in both studies were Salam, SeaIsle 2000, SeaIsle 1, SeaIsle Supreme, SeaDwarf, SeaSpray, and Aloha. The experiments were each concluded at 90 days following innoculation of nematodes at which time root and soil samples were collected in order to determine root length and nematode populations.

Seashore paspalum response to sting and spiral nematodes varied with seashore paspalum cultivars. SeaSpray and SeaIsle 2000 were found to be tolerant of spiral nematode. SeaDwarf, SeaIsle Supreme, and Salam were the cultivars most tolerant to sting nematode. Unfortunately, no seashore paspalum cultivar was tolerant to both sting and spiral nematodes. However, because of the stout nature of seashore paspalum root systems, seashore paspalum is more tolerant to sting nematode than bermudagrass.

For more specific information on this research work, please read the journal article published in Crop Science in the November-December 2011 edition.