ARS | Publication request: Effects of furfural on nematode populations and galling on tomato and pepper

Submitted to: Nematropica
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: July 20, 2010
Publication Date: December 1, 2007
Citation: Burelle, N.K. 2007. Effects of furfural on nematode populations and galling on tomato and pepper. Nematropica. 37:307-316.

Technical Abstract: A commercial formulation of furfural (Multiguard® Protect) was evaluated in greenhouse trials over three seasons for effects on parasitic and beneficial nematode populations in roots and soil, plant growth, and galling on tomato and bell pepper caused by Meloidogyne incognita. ‘Tiny Tim’ tomato (Solanum lycopersicum = Lycopersinon esculentum) and ‘Capistrano’ bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) were transplanted into pots containing treated and untreated field soil which was naturally infested with M. incognita, as well as microbivorous nematodes, and soil microorganisms. In several tests the number of M. incognita J2 isolated from roots of tomato and pepper increased with application of furfural while galling was reduced. Pepper was more susceptible than tomato with respect to phytoxicity with post-plant, or high preplant rates of furfural, while high rates provided effective management of galling on tomato. Low rates and post-plant applications were neither phytotoxic to tomato nor effective in reducing galling, and did not increase levels of M. incognita control over the high rates applied alone. Furfural affected beneficial microbivorous nematodes differently than M. incognita, especially those isolated from roots. This effect varied depending on the host plant and rate of treatment, and may reflect effects on soil microoganisms.