Principle Investigator: Kiersten Wise

National Research Service/National Institute of Food and Agriculture

7/06/2022 to 9/30/2026

Plant-parasitic corn nematodes can cause significant yield losses across the United States. Research from states surrounding Kentucky indicate that plant-parasitic nematodes can be found in the majority of corn production fields. These projects also demonstrate that nematode species and crop production practices such as crop rotation and tillage system influence the level and distribution of species and ultimately impact on yield. Despite understanding the growing importance of plant-parasitic nematodes on corn, there is a lack of understanding of the distribution, species and impact of plant-parasitic nematodes on corn in Kentucky. Very limited research has been conducted to date on plant-parasitic nematodes of corn in the state.

The overall goal of this project is to better understand the species and distribution of plant-parasitic nematodes on corn in Kentucky and investigate in-season management practices to determine their impact on plant-parasitic nematode populations and corn yield. The specific objectives of the research are to: 1) continue to survey corn production areas in the state to determine the type and level of plant-parasitic nematodes found in Kentucky corn fields, 2) determine the effect of in-season plant-parasitic corn nematode management strategies, including chemical seed treatments and in-furrow applications, and 3) create Extension outputs on plant-parasitic corn nematodes to better inform stakeholders of the research surrounding their distribution, management and impact in Kentucky.

The target audience of this research are Kentucky farmers, County Agents, Certified Crop Advisors, and industry representatives, among others. A better understanding of the species of plant-parasitic nematodes, their distribution in the state, and management strategies will help farmers and other stakeholders make informed decisions about effective and economical mitigation strategies for plant-parasitic corn nematodes.