Umeå universitets logga

Nematodes, also known as roundworms, are abundant multicellular organisms found in water and soil, with 250 species identified as agricultural pests that can cause significant crop losses. The majority of agricultural losses are caused by two types of plant parasitic nematodes: cyst nematodes (Heterodera and Globodera spp.) and root knot-nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). Current nematode control approaches rely on synthetic chemical nematicides, which have adverse effects on human health and the environment. As an alternative, biological control is based on nematode-antagonistic microorganisms. Screening bacteria and fungi for nematicidal effects is essential for advancing pest management, providing an effective alternative to chemical nematicides, and addressing sustainability concerns in pest control and soil health. This master’s thesis investigates the potential of bacterial species in controlling plant parasitic nematodes in potato plants. Two of the studied bacterial species have demonstrated promising results by reducing the number of infection sites while maintaining potato yield under nematode infection.