Cereal cyst nematode is a complex of pest species that includes Mediterranean cereal cyst nematode (Heterodera latipons, Wollenweber). The cereal cyst nematode, a type of soil-borne microscopic worm, affects wheat, barley, oat and triticale (but not other grain crops such as lupins, canola and chickpeas). Wild oats is also susceptible.
Cereal cyst nematodes attack roots causing yellowing, wilting and stunted growth particularly when nematode populations build up, varieties are susceptible and in paddocks that are infested with wild oats. Cereal cyst nematode can remain dormant in drought conditions.
Young cereal cyst nematodes are microscopic. They invade the roots of developing plants where females develop into lemon shaped white cysts on the roots, which can be seen by the naked eye in spring.
Mediterranean cereal cyst nematode could be confused with another nematode species that is widespread throughout south eastern Australia and present in WA, known as Heterodera avanae. Symptoms are also similar to those caused by nutrient deficiencies or other root diseases or root lesion nematode.
Yellowing, wilting and stunted growth of plants. Check the roots for damage and for white, oval cysts in spring. Roots will appear knotted and in some instances swollen. Towards the end of the season the cysts turn brown.
As with all soil-borne diseases, this exotic nematode pest spreads in contaminated soil and plant material, as well as machinery, equipment and clothing. Brown cysts can also be windblown.
Mediterranean cereal cyst nematode is present in Europe, Canada, Japan, and parts of the Middle East and Africa.
Since the nematode is soil-borne, implement good hygiene practices on your farm to prevent spread. Keep machinery, equipment and tools clean and control people and vehicle movement in production areas to minimise the risk. People returning from overseas can pose a threat, particularly if they have visited crops or farms. Control volunteer grasses and cereals, especially wild oats.
Early detection is crucial in stopping or slowing progress of a new pest. Monitor your crops regularly for anything unusual, and call in a specialist without delay to help identify anything unfamiliar.
If you see anything unusual, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Since the nematode is soil-borne, implement good hygiene practices on your farm to prevent spread. Keep machinery, equipment and tools clean and control people and vehicle movement in production areas to minimise the risk. People returning from overseas can pose a threat, particularly if they have visited crops or farms. Control volunteer grasses and cereals, especially wild oats.
Early detection is crucial in stopping or slowing progress of a new pest. Monitor your crops regularly for anything unusual, and call in a specialist without delay to help identify anything unfamiliar.
If you see anything unusual, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
