The vertical and horizontal distribution of Mesocriconema xenoplax (Raski, 1952) in Trentino vineyards (Northern Italy)
Authors
Umberto Malossini
F.E.M. IASMA, Centro Trasferimento Tecnologico San Michele all’Adige, Via E. Mach, 1, 38010 San Michele all’Adige, Trento
Giada D'Errico
Dipartimento di Scienze Animali, Vegetali e dell’Ambiente; Università degli Studi del Molise, via De Sanctis, 86100 Campobasso
Mauro Varner
Cantina Mezzacorona s.c.a., Trento
Francesco Paolo D'Errico
Dipartimento di Entomologia e Zoologia Agraria, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via Università 100, 80055 Portici (NA)
Ottavio Soppelsa
Dipartimento delle Scienze Biologiche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, via Mezzocannone 8, 80134 Napoli
Keywords:
Mesocriconema, spatial distribution, vineyards
Abstract
Spatial distribution of Mesocriconema xenoplax (Raski, 1952) was investigated in vineyards in the Trentino region (Northern Italy). Horizontal distribution showed characteristic aggregate pattern for nematodes, correlated to the symptomatology of the localized spots of infestations. The vertical distribution, in compact texture soils, revealed maximum population levels of the nematode in the top layers depending on the root occurrence that, in such conditions, is lower at the deeper levels. Higher nematode number was found at greater depths in loose soils, where roots easier penetrate. The knowledge gained from the spatial distribution of this species is fundamental to investigate the effectiveness of different sampling patterns in order to improve efficacy of control strategies.
