Published Paper Details:

Plant-parasitic nematodes have been reported to constitute serious impediments to crop production. Information on the occurrence and distribution of these pests in various irrigation sites in Katsina state is scanty. This study investigated the geographical distribution and population density of nematodes associated with some irrigation sites in the state. Ten irrigation sites across the state were surveyed in consultation with the Department of Irrigation in the Ministry of Agriculture and natural Resources, Katsina State. Five composite soil samples were taken at different crop fields in each of the irrigation sites. Extraction of nematodes from the samples was done using modified sieving and decanting techniques as described by Coyne et al. Analysis of the samples revealed 23 genera of plant parasitic nematodes. The most prominent nematodes found in all the samples collected from the irrigation sites were: Rotylenchus, Tylenchus, Pratylenchus, Scutellonema, Aphelenchus, Aphelenchoides, Meloidogyne, Hoplolaimus, and paratylenchus. While Telotylenchus, Belonolaimus, Ditylenchus, Heterodera, Longidorus, and Criconemoides occurred in very low numbers. The study indicated a widespread distribution of economically important plant-parasitic nematodes in the irrigation sites. The major nematodes identified in this study portend serious implications on profitable production of crop in the irrigation sites, because these nematodes are known to be damaging to crops. Enlightenment programme for the farmers in the irrigation sites should therefore be embarked upon by the proper agencies to inform them of the presence of plant-parasitic nematodes in their crop fields and the implications. Keywords: Occurrence, Distribution, Plant-Parasitic Nematodes, Irrigation Sites, Katsina State.