The golden potato nematode, a pest with the potential to devastate potato crops by 100%, has been detected in the Dominican Republic. This pest also targets tomatoes, eggplants, chili peppers, and certain weeds. Detection occurred in potato fields in Constanza in November. Researchers note its danger, citing over 25,000 registered species and no existing cure. To curb its spread, experts recommend against transporting planting material from Constanza to other regions.
This nematode can persist in soil for over 50 years without cultivation, rendering affected farms unsuitable for potato planting. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued an alert regarding this pest, though it does not specify its presence in the Dominican Republic. Experts urge the country to notify about the golden potato nematode or potato cyst nematode presence.
Historically, potato cyst nematodes were found in Idaho in 2006 and New York in 1941. According to the USDA alert, these nematodes primarily affect potato family plants, such as potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants, and some weeds. They do not infect potato tubers but target nutrient roots, where females attach feed, and become sedentary. Nematodes reproduce sexually, with males attracted to females by a pheromone, forming cysts containing 200 to 600 eggs.
Annually, the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) collaborates with states on a voluntary national inspection of potato nematodes to assess pest distribution and infection levels. As a control measure, USDA-APHIS partners with Idaho and New York to implement ongoing anti-malarial programs in each state.
Source: Dominican Today