About
Plant parasitic nematodes (PPNs) cause >$100 billion annual losses to world agricultural world of which cyst (Heterodera and Globodera sp.) and root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne sp.) contribute over 80\\\%.
The Plant Nematology Laboratory at LARI is a skilled laboratory providing technical support through the detection using different techniques of extraction and morphological identification of plant-parasitic nematodes.
To overcome this problem, numerous fundamental researches were undertaken concerning Root Knot Nematodes, Cyst nematodes,Foliar nematodes especially on Pine trees, Stem and Bulb nematodes, in addition to different genus of nematodes related to citrus, Fruit trees, olive, banana and grapes.
Different approaches were taken including bio-fumigation to help farmers reduce nematode populations below the economic threshold and overcome environmentally damaging chemical nematicides challenge.
In addition, our unit work supports the Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) in the implementation of plant health regulations and through meeting the requirements needed for Potato export according to EU upon yearly surveys of the potato cyst nematodes (PCN) since 2012.
The Nematology Laboratory is able to offer the following services:
- Laboratory testing for soil, plant material and peat.
- Statutory Soil Testing for PCN prior to Potato Production.
- Consignment Testing for PCN prior to Export.
Staff
- Caroline Ojeil - Head of department (carolineojeil@lari.gov.lb)