Performance of a cryo-cooled crystal monochromator illuminated by hard X-rays with MHz repetition rate at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser

Due to the high intensity and MHz repetition rate of photon pulses generated by the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser, the heat load on silicon crystal monochromators can become large and prevent ideal transmission in Bragg diffraction geometry due to crystal deformation. Here, we present experimental data illustrating how heat load affects the performance of a cryogenically cooled monochromator under such conditions. The measurements are in good agreement with a depth-uniform model of X-ray dynamical diffraction taking beam absorption and heat deformation of the crystals into account.

Pump-probe X-ray holographic imaging of laser-induced cavitation bubbles with femtosecond FEL pulses

Cavitation bubbles can be seeded from a plasma following optical breakdown, by focusing an intense laser in water. The fast dynamics are associated with extreme states of gas and liquid, especially in the nascent state. This offers a unique setting to probe water and water vapor far-from equilibrium. However, current optical techniques cannot quantify these early states due to contrast and resolution limitations. X-ray holography with single X-ray free-electron laser pulses has now enabled a quasi-instantaneous high resolution structural probe with contrast proportional to the electron density of the object. In this work, we demonstrate cone-beam holographic flash imaging of laser-induced cavitation bubbles in water with nanofocused X-ray free-electron laser pulses. We quantify the spatial and temporal pressure distribution of the shockwave surrounding the expanding cavitation bubble at time delays shortly after seeding and compare the results to numerical simulations.

Morphometric and Molecular Diversity among Seven European Isolates of Pratylenchus penetrans

Pratylenchus penetrans is an economically important root-lesion nematode species that affects agronomic and ornamental plants. Understanding its diversity is of paramount importance to develop effective control and management strategies. This study aimed to characterize the morphological and genetic diversity among seven European isolates. An isolate from the USA was included in the molecular analyses for comparative purposes. Morphometrics of the European P. penetrans isolates generally were within the range of the original descriptions for this species. However, multiple morphometric characteristics, including body length, maximum body width, tail length and length of the post-vulval uterine sac showed discrepancies when compared to other populations. Nucleotide sequence-based analyses revealed a high level of intraspecific diversity among the isolates. We observed no correlation between D2-D3 rDNA- and COXI-based phylogenetic similarities and geographic origin. Our phylogenetic analyses including selected GenBank sequences also suggest that the controversy surrounding the distinction between P. penetrans and P. fallax remains.

Materials Imaging and Dynamics (MID) instrument at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser Facility

The Materials Imaging and Dynamics (MID) instrument at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser (EuXFEL) facility is described. EuXFEL is the first hard X-ray free-electron laser operating in the MHz repetition range which provides novel science opportunities. The aim of MID is to enable studies of nano-structured materials, liquids, and soft- and hard-condensed matter using the bright X-ray beams generated by EuXFEL. Particular emphasis is on studies of structure and dynamics in materials by coherent scattering and imaging using hard X-rays. Commission of MID started at the end of 2018 and first experiments were performed in 2019.

Nematicidal activity of the tropane alkaloids hyoscyamine and scopolamine against the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita

Alkaloids and alkaloid-producing plants have the potential to reduce crop damage by plant-parasitic nematodes. In a series of in vitro experiments, the nematicidal activity of the tropane alkaloids, hyoscyamine and scopolamine, and a mixture of both on the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, was tested. Solutions of 16 mg of compound per ml of solvent were used in concentrations of 80-1280 μg ml−1 of water. Inactivity of second-stage juveniles of M. incognita increased with increasing concentration and exposure time. Lethal concentrations (LC50) after 120 min of exposure ranged from 182.4 μg ml−1 for scopolamine to 318.4 μg ml−1 for hyoscyamine and 332.8 μg ml−1 for the combination of both alkaloids. Similarly, the same concentrations of scopolamine inhibited hatching of M. incognita to a greater extent than hyoscyamine. In a glasshouse experiment, M. incognita was not able to penetrate the roots, induce galls and reproduce on Datura stramonium, D. innoxia and D. tatula. Results indicate that the tropane alkaloids hyoscyamine and scopolamine contained in Datura plants express a strong nematicidal activity against M. incognita and could possibly be used for an alternative and sustainable nematode management.

Population dynamics of Hemicycliophora conida as affected by different temperatures and absence of hosts

The effects of temperature and absence of a host plant on the population dynamics of the sheath nematode, Hemicycliophora conida, were studied under glasshouse conditions. Regarding temperature, population dynamics of H. conida on tomato ‘Moneymaker’ were monitored weekly over a period of 12 weeks. In the first experiment, with an average temperature of 21.4°C, population growth of H. conida continuously increased over time from an initial density of 106 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1 to a final density of 820 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1, resulting in a reproduction rate of 7.7. The time required to complete one generation was 6.5 weeks or 598 temperature degree days at 8°C base temperature (TDD8). A second experiment showed that the development of H. conida on tomato was faster at 22.1°C than at 19.0°C. At 22.1°C, one generation was completed after 6 weeks (= 588 TDD8) compared to 8 weeks (=634 TDD8) at 19.0°C. The higher temperature also resulted in a higher reproduction rate (93 at 22.1°C vs 7.8 at 19.0°C). In the absence of a host plant, the population density of H. conida decreased over time. However, this natural decline was less pronounced than for the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne hapla. In the first experiment, the population density of H. conida decreased within 18 weeks by 89.5%, while M. hapla was already no longer detectable 12 weeks after inoculation. In the second experiment, H. conida decreased by 98.2% within 16 weeks compared to 99.98% for M. hapla.

Population dynamics and host range of Paratylenchus bukowinensis

The plant-parasitic nematode, Paratylenchus bukowinensis, occurs ubiquitously in arable fields. Economic damage has been reported from, among others, cabbage, parsley, and celery, but other crops might be affected as well. Management of P. bukowinensis is difficult. Resistant cultivars are not available and chemical control is prohibited in most European countries. In addition, sustainable management is often hindered by a lack of information regarding the biology and host range of P. bukowinensis. To improve the management of P. bukowinensis in the future, a good understanding of the life cycle and host plant-nematode interactions is required. We investigated the host range, life cycle and natural decline of P. bukowinensis in five glasshouse experiments. A total of 26 plant genotypes comprising 22 plant species from eight plant families were studied. Plant species within the families Brassicaceae and Apiaceae were confirmed as good hosts, while plant species within the families Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Amaryllidaceae, Solanaceae, Amaranthaceae and Poaceae can be considered non-hosts or poor hosts. In roots of good hosts, P. bukowinensis completed its life cycle within 3-4 weeks. In the absence of a host plant, P. bukowinensis declined by 40% within the first 4 weeks, but then remained at this level until the experiment was terminated after 14 weeks. Overall, the host range of P. bukowinensis seems to be smaller than for other species within the genus Paratylenchus, such as P. projectus or P. similis. Control of P. bukowinensis using crop rotation should be feasible by rotating good hosts belonging to the families Brassicaceae and Apiaceae with non-hosts or poor hosts.

Significant genetic differences among Heterodera schachtii populations within and among sugar beet production areas

Characterising the non-neutral genetic variation within and among populations of plant-parasitic nematodes is essential to determine factors shaping the population genetic structure. This study describes the genetic variation of the parasitism gene vap1 within and among geographic populations of the beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii. Forty populations of H. schachtii were sampled at four spatial scales: 695 km, 49 km, 3.1 km and 0.24 km. DGGE fingerprinting showed significant differences in vap1 patterns among populations. High similarity of vap1 patterns appeared between geographically close populations, and occasionally among distant populations. Analysis of spatially sampled populations within fields revealed an effect of tillage direction on the vap1 similarity for two of four studied fields. Overall, geographic distance and similarity of vap1 patterns of H. schachtii populations were negatively correlated. In conclusion, the population genetic structure was shaped by the interplay between the genetic adaptation and the passive transport of this nematode.

Symbiosis of soybean with nitrogen fixing bacteria affected by root lesion nematodes in a density-dependent manner

Early maturing varieties of soybean have a high yield potential in Europe, where the main biotic threat to soybean cultivation are root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.). Nitrogen fixation in root nodules by highly efficient inoculants of Bradyrhizobium japonicum is an incentive to grow soybean in low-input rotation systems. We investigated density-dependent effects of Pratylenchus penetrans on nitrogen fixation by co-inoculated B. japonicum. Less than 130 inoculated nematodes affected the number and weight of nodules, the density of viable bacteroids in nodules, and nitrogen fixation measured as concentration of ureides in leaves. With more inoculated nematodes, the percentage that invaded the roots increased, and adverse effects on the symbiosis accelerated, leading to non-functional nodules at 4,000 and more nematodes. When P. penetrans invaded roots that had fully established nodules, growth of nodules, density of bacteroids, and nitrogen fixation were affected but not the number of nodules. In contrast, nodulation of already infested roots resulted in a high number of small nodules with decreased densities of bacteroids and nitrogen fixation. P. penetrans invaded and damaged the nodules locally, but they also significantly affected the nodule symbiosis by a plant-mediated mechanism, as shown in an experiment with split-root systems.

Antagonistic role of the microbiome from a Meloidogyne hapla-suppressive soil against species of plant-parasitic nematodes with different life strategies

In certain soils populations of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) decline. Understanding this effect may open up environmentally friendly management options. We identified such a suppressive soil containing virtually no PPN. Inoculated Meloidogyne hapla declined in this soil more than in a control soil and reproduction on tomato was reduced. The extracted soil microbiome alone decreased root invasion of second-stage juveniles (J2) and progeny as well as the native soil. We tested the antagonistic potential against PPN that differ in life strategies. The microbiome was most suppressive against two populations of M. hapla and one population of Pratylenchus neglectus, and least suppressive against M. incognita and the ectoparasite Hemicycliophora conida. In a split-root system with M. hapla, plant-mediated but not direct effects of the microbiome significantly reduced root invasion of J2, while direct exposure of M. hapla to the microbiome significantly affected reproduction. Overall, both plant-mediated and direct effects of the microbiome were responsible for the soil suppressiveness against M. hapla.

Evaluation of soybean cultivars for their susceptibility to root-lesion nematodes under temperate conditions

Soybean, Glycine max, is a relatively new crop in Europe gaining increasing interest for its potential to fix atmospheric nitrogen and thus increase sustainability of modern agricultural production systems. Under temperate conditions, root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) are one of the most prominent plant-parasitic nematode taxa of economic concern in soybean. Here, we investigated the susceptibility of soybean cultivars towards naturally occurring populations of Pratylenchus spp. and their effects on soybean yield. At the site Bundesallee the cultivars ‘Abelina’, ‘Primus’ and ‘Taifun3’ supported the highest infestation and multiplication of a mixed population of P. neglectus and P. crenatus, while ‘Sultana’ and ‘Solena’ were least susceptible. At the field site Groß Lüsewitz, ‘Primus’ and ‘Merlin’ cultivars were significantly more susceptible to P. neglectus than ‘Sultana’. Soybean yield was reduced by high initial densities of Pratylenchus spp. Results are expected to contribute to a better nematode management.

Rhizosphere Microbiomes Modulated by Pre-crops Assisted Plants in Defense Against Plant-Parasitic Nematodes

Plant-parasitic nematodes cause considerable damage to crop plants. The rhizosphere microbiome can affect invasion and reproductive success of plant-parasitic nematodes, thus affecting plant damage. In this study, we investigated how the transplanted rhizosphere microbiome from different crops affect plant-parasitic nematodes on soybean or tomato, and whether the plant’s own microbiome from the rhizosphere protects it better than the microbiome from fallow soil. Soybean plants growing in sterilized substrate were inoculated with the microbiome extracted from the rhizosphere of soybean, maize, or tomato. Controls were inoculated with extracts from bulk soil, or not inoculated. After the microbiome was established, the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans was added. Root invasion of P. penetrans was significantly reduced on soybean plants inoculated with the microbiome from maize or soybean compared to tomato or bulk soil, or the uninoculated control. In the analogous experiment with tomato plants inoculated with either P. penetrans or the root knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, the rhizosphere microbiomes of maize and tomato reduced root invasion by P. penetrans and M. incognita compared to microbiomes from soybean or bulk soil. Reproduction of M. incognita on tomato followed the same trend, and it was best suppressed by the tomato rhizosphere microbiome. In split-root experiments with soybean and tomato plants, a systemic effect of the inoculated rhizosphere microbiomes on root invasion of P. penetrans was shown. Furthermore, some transplanted microbiomes slightly enhanced plant growth compared to uninoculated plants. The microbiomes from maize rhizosphere and bulk soil increased the fresh weights of roots and shoots of soybean plants, and microbiomes from soybean rhizosphere and bulk soil increased the fresh weights of roots and shoots of tomato plants. Nematode invasion did not affect plant growth in these short-term experiments. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of the rhizosphere microbiome in protecting crops against plant-parasitic nematodes. An effect of pre-crops on the rhizosphere microbiome might be harnessed to enhance the resistance of crops towards plant-parasitic nematodes. However, nematode-suppressive effects of a particular microbiome may not necessarily coincide with improvement of plant growth in the absence of plant-parasitic nematodes.

Development of a hard X-ray split-and-delay line and performance simulations for two-color pump-probe experiments at the European XFEL

A hard X-ray Split-and-Delay Line (SDL) under construction for the Materials Imaging and Dynamics station at the European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser (XFEL) is presented. This device aims at providing pairs of X-ray pulses with a variable time delay ranging from -10 ps to 800 ps in a photon energy range from 5 to 10 keV for photon correlation and X-ray pump-probe experiments. A custom designed mechanical motion system including active feedback control ensures that the high demands for stability and accuracy can be met and the design goals achieved. Using special radiation configurations of the European XFEL's SASE-2 undulator (SASE: Self-Amplified Spontaneous Emission), two-color hard x-ray pump-probe schemes with varying photon energy separations have been proposed. Simulations indicate that more than 10⁹ photons on the sample per pulse-pair and up to about 10% photon energy separation can be achieved in the hard X-ray region using the SDL.

Sewage sludge amendment and inoculation with plant-parasitic nematodes do not facilitate the internalization of Salmonella Typhimurium LT2 in lettuce plants

Contamination of fruits and vegetables with Salmonella is a serious threat to human health. In order to prevent possible contaminations of fresh produce it is necessary to identify the contributing ecological factors. In this study we investigated whether the addition of sewage sludge or the presence of plant-parasitic nematodes foster the internalization of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium LT2 into lettuce plants, posing a potential threat for human health. Greenhouse experiments were conducted to investigate whether the amendment of sewage sludge to soil or the presence of plant-parasitic nematodes Meloidogyne hapla or Pratylenchus crenatus promote the internalization of S. Typhimurium LT2 from soil into the edible part of lettuce plants. Unexpectedly, numbers of cultivable S. Typhimurium LT2 decreased faster in soil with sewage sludge than in control soil but not in root samples. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis revealed shifts of the soil bacterial communities in response to sewage sludge amendment and time. Infection and proliferation of nematodes inside plant roots were observed but did not influence the number of cultivable S. Typhimurium LT2 in the root samples or in soil. S. Typhimurium LT2 was not detected in the leaf samples 21 and 49 days after inoculation. The results indicate that addition of sewage sludge, M. hapla or P. crenatus to soil inoculated with S. Typhimurium LT2 did not result in an improved survival in soil or internalization of lettuce plants.

Effector gene vap1 based DGGE fingerprinting to assess variation within and among Heterodera schachtii populations

Populations of beet cyst nematodes Heterodera schachtii vary in aggressiveness and virulence toward sugar beet varieties, but also in traits like host range, or decline rate in the field. Diversity of their essential pathogenicity gene vap1 is shaped by diversifying selection and gene flow. The authors developed a technique to study inter-population variation and intra-population diversity and dynamics of H. schachtii based on the gene vap1. Degenerate primers were designed to amplify, clone, and sequence this gene from diverse species and populations of cyst nematodes. This resulted in a high diversity of sequences for H. schachtii, and allowed to design non-degenerated primers to amplify a fragment suitable for sequence dependent separation of gene variants in denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The developed primers span a highly variable intron and part of a slightly variable exon. A marker comprised of the 14 mostly detected gene variants was established for gel-to-gel comparisons. For individual juveniles up to six gene variants were resolved and substantial variation within and among cysts was observed. A fast and easy DNA extraction procedure for 20 pooled cysts was established, which provided DGGE patterns with high similarity among replicate samples from field populations. Permutation tests on pairwise similarities within and among populations showed significant differences among vap1 patterns of field populations of H. schachtii. Similarly, gene diversity as expressed by the Shannon index was statistically different among field populations. In conclusion, the DGGE technique is a fast and - compared to sequencing approaches - inexpensive tool to compare populations of H. schachtii and link observed biological characteristics to genetic pattern.

Populations of beet cyst nematodes Heterodera schachtii vary in aggressiveness and virulence toward sugar beet varieties, but also in traits like host range, or decline rate in the field. Diversity of their essential pathogenicity gene vap1 is shaped by diversifying selection and gene flow. The authors developed a technique to study inter-population variation and intra-population diversity and dynamics of H. schachtii based on the gene vap1. Degenerate primers were designed to amplify, clone, and sequence this gene from diverse species and populations of cyst nematodes. This resulted in a high diversity of sequences for H. schachtii, and allowed to design non-degenerated primers to amplify a fragment suitable for sequence dependent separation of gene variants in denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The developed primers span a highly variable intron and part of a slightly variable exon. A marker comprised of the 14 mostly detected gene variants was established for gel-to-gel comparisons. For individual juveniles up to six gene variants were resolved and substantial variation within and among cysts was observed. A fast and easy DNA extraction procedure for 20 pooled cysts was established, which provided DGGE patterns with high similarity among replicate samples from field populations. Permutation tests on pairwise similarities within and among populations showed significant differences among vap1 patterns of field populations of H. schachtii. Similarly, gene diversity as expressed by the Shannon index was statistically different among field populations. In conclusion, the DGGE technique is a fast and – compared to sequencing approaches – inexpensive tool to compare populations of H. schachtii and link observed biological characteristics to genetic pattern.

Oilseed radish/black oat subsidiary crops can help regulate plant-parasitic nematodes under non-inversion tillage in an organic wheat-potato rotation

Soil conservation is one of the major challenges for agriculture in the 21st century. For this reason, non-inversion tillage systems including subsidiary crops have become popular over the last three decades in Europe. However, the adoption of new agricultural practices may change the diversity and abundance of certain pests and diseases. For example, plant-parasitic nematodes that are major threats towards cultivated plants may be promoted if good hosts, such as certain subsidiary crops and weeds, occur more frequently. The indigenous plant-parasitic nematode fauna under organic farming systems is already adapted to diverse crop rotations and usually dominated by nematodes with broad host ranges. These may be further enhanced in organic farming systems if non-inversion tillage is introduced, which generally increases the abundance and biomass of certain weeds. We evaluated the early effects of non-inversion tillage and subsidiary crops in an organic wheat-potato rotation on plant-parasitic nematodes in two field experiments in two successive years. The total densities of plant-parasitic nematodes increased from an initial 1260 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1 at the start of the experiment to 1850 and 1700 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1 after wheat under non-inversion and conventional tillage, respectively. Plant-parasitic nematode densities then decreased on average to 1100 and 560 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1 after subsidiary crops and potatoes, respectively. Parasitic nematode densities tended to be higher under non-inversion than conventional tillage, except where oilseed radish and black oats had been used as cover crops. For the latter, no differences between tillage treatments occurred. In the second experiment, about 1700 free-living nematodes (100 ml soil)−1 were found under conventional tillage without mulch while under reduced tillage with mulch their numbers were significantly higher at 3100 nematodes (100 ml soil)−1. We conclude that an appropriate choice of subsidiary crops can be an important management factor for the long term sustainability of non-inversion tillage systems.

Morphological and molecular characterisation of Helicotylenchus pseudorobustus (Steiner, 1914) Golden, 1956 and related species (Tylenchida: Hoplolaimidae) with a phylogeny of the genus

Morphological identification of spiral nematodes of the genus Helicotylenchus is a difficult task because most characters used for their diagnosis vary within species. In this paper we provide morphological and molecular characterisations of several spiral nematodes, H. broadbalkiensis, H. digonicus, H. dihystera, H. microlobus, H. paxilli and H. pseudorobustus, collected in different geographical areas of USA, Switzerland, Italy, New Zealand, Spain, UK, South Korea and Russia. We suggest that H. microlobus and H. pseudorobustus are valid species separated from each other morphologically and molecularly. Seven species with distinct molecular characteristics are also distinguished, but are not ascribed morphologically to any specific taxon because of the low number of specimens available. Phylogenetic relationships of H. pseudorobustus with other Helicotylenchus species are given as inferred from the analyses of 154 sequences of the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA gene and 37 sequences of ITS rRNA gene.

First Report of the Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne hapla Parasitizing Roses in Ethiopia

Meloidogyne hapla is one of the most damaging plant-parasitic nematodes in temperate regions. This nematode has a wide host range with more than 500 plant taxa including roses. In Ethiopia, rose production has developed over the past 10 years to the second most important export market after coffee. Considering the high damage potential of M. hapla, infestation of roses in Ethiopia with this nematode could result in major economic losses. Therefore, awareness of this nematode species is extremely important. During two surveys conducted in August 2011 and April 2012, M. hapla was detected in soil samples from six out of nine rose producing farms located in the districts of Ziway, Holleta, Sebeta, and Menagesha. At infested farms, rose plants appeared stunted and less productive and often showed symptoms of chlorosis and wilting. Identification was based on morphological and morphometrical characters of females, males, and second-stage juveniles, which were all within the range of variability known for this species (4). Shape of juvenile stylet knobs, shape of male head, and perennial pattern of the females with characteristic punctuations between the anus and tail terminus were also typical for M. hapla. The morphological identification was confirmed by sequence analysis of the D2-D3 expansion segment of the 28S rDNA gene following amplification with the primers D2A (5'-ACAAGTACCGTGAGGGAAAGTT-3') and D3B (5'-TCGGAAGGAACCAGCTACTA-3') (1). PCR products were purified and sequenced at the Macrogene sequencing facility service (Amsterdam, The Netherlands). Sequences were deposited in GenBank (KJ645427 to 33). The sequences were compared with previously published sequences in NCBI database and showed 96 to 100% sequence similarity with M. hapla accession nos. GQ130139, DQ328685, KF430798, and DQ145641. Unfortunately, comparison of sequences did not provide further information about the origin of this Ethiopian population, if it is native to Ethiopia or was imported with infected plant material. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first record of M. hapla occurring in Ethiopia. M. hapla is known as a serious pest of roses in colder climate regions. In Africa, it was previously reported from Tanzania (3) and South Africa (2). Thus, it appears that this species has now become also established in Ethiopia at higher altitudes (1,400 to 2,100 m above sea level) within the urban hinterland of Addis Ababa. References: (1) Baldwin et al. Mol. Phy. Evol. 8:248, 1887. (2) J. H. O'Bannon. Institute Agri. Res. 29, 1975. (3) E. Onkendi and L. N. Moleleki. Eur. J. Pl. Pathol. 136:1, 2013. (4) A. G. Whitehead. Trans. Zool. Soc. Lon.31:263, 1968.

Identification of msp1 Gene Variants in Populations of Meloidogyne incognita Using PCR-DGGE

Effectors of root-knot nematodes are essential for parasitism and prone to recognition by adapted variants of the host plants. This selective pressure initiates hypervariability of effector genes. Diversity of the gene variants within nematode populations might correlate with host preferences. In this study we developed a method to compare the distribution of variants of the effector gene msp1 among populations of Meloidogyne incognita. Primers were designed to amplify a 234-bp fragment of msp1. Sequencing of cloned PCR products revealed five msp1 variants from seven populations that were distinguishable in their reproduction on five host plants. A protocol for denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) was developed to separate these msp1 variants. DGGE for replicated pools of juveniles from the seven populations revealed ten variants of msp1. A correlation between the presence of a particular gene variant and the reproductive potential on particular hosts was not evident. Especially race 3 showed substantial variation within the population. DGGE fingerprints of msp1 tended to cluster the populations according to their reproduction rate on pepper. The developed method could be useful for analyzing population heterogeneity and epidemiology of M. incognita.

Bacterial antagonists of fungal pathogens also control root-knot nematodes by induced systemic resistance of tomato plants

The potential of bacterial antagonists of fungal pathogens to control the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita was investigated under greenhouse conditions. Treatment of tomato seeds with several strains significantly reduced the numbers of galls and egg masses compared with the untreated control. Best performed Bacillus subtilis isolates Sb4-23, Mc5-Re2, and Mc2-Re2, which were further studied for their mode of action with regard to direct effects by bacterial metabolites or repellents, and plant mediated effects. Drenching of soil with culture supernatants significantly reduced the number of egg masses produced by M. incognita on tomato by up to 62% compared to the control without culture supernatant. Repellence of juveniles by the antagonists was shown in a linked twin-pot set-up, where a majority of juveniles penetrated roots on the side without inoculated antagonists. All tested biocontrol strains induced systemic resistance against M. incognita in tomato, as revealed in a split-root system where the bacteria and the nematodes were inoculated at spatially separated roots of the same plant. This reduced the production of egg masses by up to 51%, while inoculation of bacteria and nematodes in the same pot had only a minor additive effect on suppression of M. incognita compared to induced systemic resistance alone. Therefore, the plant mediated effect was the major reason for antagonism rather than direct mechanisms. In conclusion, the bacteria known for their antagonistic potential against fungal pathogens also suppressed M. incognita. Such "multi-purpose" bacteria might provide new options for control strategies, especially with respect to nematode-fungus disease complexes that cause synergistic yield losses.

Efficacy of sedimentation basins of a nematology laboratory in retaining plant-parasitic nematodes

Laboratories working with regulated plant-parasitic nematodes need to ensure that those nematodes are contained within the quarantine facility. Solid or liquid waste produced during the nematode extraction process has to be deposited in such a way that there is no risk of nematodes spreading. Autoclaving works well for solid waste but uses substantial amounts of energy and thus is often considered too expensive for the enormous amount of wastewater accumulating during nematode extraction. Therefore, there is considerable interest in using less energy-consuming alternatives, such as sedimentation basins. However, published information on the efficacy of sedimentation basins in retaining plant-parasitic nematodes is almost non-existent. In this study, the efficacy of a three-step sedimentation system under routine and artificially nematode-enriched conditions was investigated. Under all experimental conditions, nematode cysts or part of cysts were never found to escape the sedimentation system. This also accounts for plant-parasitic nematodes (eggs and vermiform stages) during routine operation. However, under artificially nematode-enriched conditions (supply of up to several million nematodes) and maximum water flow rates, single specimens of plant-parasitic nematodes were detected in the effluent of the last sedimentation basin that feeds into the closed municipal sewage system. Although wastewater treatment was not investigated in this study, the combination of a system of sedimentation basins plus subsequent wastewater treatment in sewage plants is considered a cost-effective method to contain plant-parasitic nematodes during routine operation.

Single pulse coherence measurements in the water window at the free-electron laser FLASH

The spatial coherence of free-electron laser radiation in the water window spectral range was studied, using the third harmonic (λ<(3rd) = 2.66 nm) of DESY's Free-electron LASer in Hamburg (FLASH). Coherent single pulse diffraction patterns of 1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) multilamellar lipid stacks have been recorded. The intensity histogram of the speckle pattern around the first lamellar Bragg peak, corresponding to the d = 5 nm periodicity of the stack, reveals an average number of transverse modes of M¯ = 3.0 of the 3rd harmonic. Using the lipid stack as a 'monochromator', pulse-to-pulse fluctuations in the third harmonic λ(3rd) have been determined to be 0.033 nm.

Development of a multipurpose vacuum chamber for serial optical and diffraction experiments with free electron laser radiation

In this paper we present a development of a multipurpose vacuum chamber which primal function is to be used in pump/probe experiments with free electron laser (FEL) radiation. The chamber is constructed for serial diffraction and serial spectroscopy allowing a fast exchange of samples during the measurement process. For the fast exchange of samples, liquid jet systems are used. Both applications, utilizing soft x-ray FEL pulses as pump and optical laser pulses as probe and vice versa are documented. Experiments with solid samples as well as the liquid jet samples are presented. When working with liquid jets, a system of automatically refilled liquid traps for capturing liquids has been developed in order to ensure stable vacuum conditions. Differential pumping stages are placed in between the FEL beamline and the experimental chamber so that working pressure in the chamber can be up to four orders of magnitude higher than the pressure in the FEL beamline.

Diffraction properties of periodic lattices under free electron laser radiation

In this Letter, we report the pioneering use of free electron laser radiation for the investigation of periodic crystalline structures. The diffraction properties of silver behenate single nanocrystals (5.8 nm periodicity) with the dimensions of 20 nm x 20 nm x 20 microm and as powder with grain sizes smaller than 200 nm were investigated with 8 nm free electron laser radiation in single-shot modus with 30 fs long free electron laser pulses. This work emphasizes the possibility of using soft x-ray free electron laser radiation for these crystallographic studies on a nanometer scale.

The genus Hirschmanniella (Tylenchida: Pratylenchidae) in Europe, with description of H. halophila sp. n. from Germany and notes on H. caudacrena

Abstract

Four Hirschmanniella species are known to occur in Europe: H. gracilis, H. loofi, H. behningi and H. zostericola; a fifth species, H. halophila sp. n., is described from Germany, where it was found along the Elbe estuary and on the adjoining coast of the North Sea. Three other species reported for Europe are considered as species inquirendae or appear to be misidentified. Based on sampling material from Germany, detailed morphological descriptions of H. gracilis, H. loofi and H. behningi are given; H. zostericola has not been found since its first description. The variability, even of characters of diagnostic significance, may be enormous, which makes correct identification difficult if little material is available. Hirschmanniella halophila sp. n. is morphologically very close to H. caudacrena, which has been isolated several times from aquarium plants imported from East Asia to Germany and for which morphological details are given. In Germany, H. gracilis is the most common species and is widely distributed; it is also known from many other European countries. Hirschmanniella loofi (also known from The Netherlands, Belgium, Poland and Italy) is less common. Hirschmanniella behningi, previously reported only from Russia and Sweden, was identified from nine places in Germany, including several coastal sites. Most of the Hirschmanniella records refer to moist soils with reed and other grasses or sedges; only H. gracilis was found exceptionally in arable soil. At many sampling sites, two or even three Hirschmanniella species co-occurred. A table for distinguishing the five European species is presented.

Effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids on the performance of plant-parasitic and free-living nematodes

BACKGROUND

Chemical nematicides such as methyl bromide have for decades played a significant role in the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Their application is problematic because of negative environmental impacts, and therefore methyl bromide was phased out in Europe in 2005. A possible alternative to synthetically derived nematicides is seen in the use of plants and/or their secondary metabolites. These plants could either be used as nematicidal green manure or as a source for nematicidal extracts. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a group of secondary plant metabolites found in hundreds of plant species throughout the world, on the performance of plant-parasitic and free-living nematodes.

RESULTS

PAs induced nematicidal, ovicidal and repellent effects on different plant-parasitic and free-living nematodes. There was no conclusive ranking in toxicity for the different structural types of PAs tested. However, the effects were often more pronounced for the tertiary than for the oxidised form of PAs. Further, large differences were observed in the susceptibility of different nematode species to PAs.

CONCLUSIONS

PAs do affect several performance parameters and developmental stages of nematodes. Therefore, PA-producing plants such as species of Crotalaria, Ageratum or Senecio might be promising candidates for nematode management strategies. [Correction made here after initial online publication].

Endophytic bacteria from Ethiopian coffee plants and their potential to antagonise Meloidogyne incognita

Abstract

Endophytic bacteria were isolated from coffee roots in Ethiopia and identified by Fatty Acid Methyl Ester-Gas Chromatography (FAME-GC). A total of 201 and 114 endophytic bacteria were isolated and identified during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. The most abundant genera were Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Agrobacterium, Stenotrophomonas and Enterobacter. Population densities were higher during the wet season than the dry season ranging from 5.2 × 103 to 2.07 × 106 cfu (g fresh root weight)–1. Culture filtrates of the bacterial isolates showed nematicidal effects of between 38 and 98%. The most active strains were Agrobacterium radiobacter, Bacillus pumilus, B. brevis, B. megaterium, B. mycoides, B. licheniformis, Chryseobacterium balustinum, Cedecea davisae, Cytophaga johnsonae, Lactobacillus paracasei, Micrococcus luteus, M. halobius, Pseudomonas syringae and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Bacillus pumilus and B. mycoides were most effective in reducing the number of galls and egg masses caused by M. incognita by 33 and 39%, respectively.

Low amounts of herbivory by root-knot nematodes affect microbial community dynamics and carbon allocation in the rhizosphere

Increased carbon translocation to the rhizosphere via 'leakage' induced by low amounts of plant parasitic nematodes can foster microorganisms. The effects of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita on microbial biomass (C(mic)) and community structure (phospholipid fatty acids) in the rhizosphere of barley were studied. Inoculation densities of 2000, 4000, and 8000 nematodes were well below the threshold level for plant damage. A (13)CO(2) pulse-labelling was performed to assess the distribution of assimilated (13)C in the rhizosphere. Infection with M. incognita increased the carbon concentration in shoots, and enhanced root biomass slightly. The presence of nematodes did not affect microbial biomass, but significantly changed the allocation of the recent photosynthate. Less plant carbon was sequestered by microorganisms with increasing nematode abundance. Microbial community structure was distinctly altered in the early stages of the plant-nematode interactions. Both, bacteria and fungi, showed a positive response with 2000, and a negative one with 4000 and 8000 M. incognita added. The results suggest that low-level root herbivory still imposes a considerable carbon demand, and that proliferation of microorganisms due to increased rhizodeposition may be short-termed. The carbon flow to rhizosphere microbial communities is likely dependent on the specific nematode-plant association and the developmental stage of the nematode in the host.

Occurrence and importance of plant-parasitic nematodes in organic farming in Germany

Abstract

In an attempt to evaluate the occurrence and economic importance of plant-parasitic nematodes in organic farming in Germany, a survey was conducted with the main emphasis on vegetable and cereal production systems. For vegetables, the survey included quantification and identification of plant-parasitic nematodes in soil samples and a questionnaire for growers querying production factors and damage levels. For cereals, the survey focused on quantification and identification of plant-parasitic nematodes in soil and plant samples. Overall, Pratylenchus and Tylenchorhynchus were the most prominent nematode genera under both production systems with an incidence of over 90% of the samples. Meloidogyne was detected in 51% of the samples in both systems. Other nematode genera showed differences between the two production systems. In production systems with a high frequency of vegetables, Paratylenchus was detected in 56% of the samples and Heterodera in 15%, whereas in rotations with a high cropping frequency of cereals, incidences of plant-parasitic nematodes were 56% for Heterodera, 47% for Trichodorus and 45% for Paratylenchus. Yield losses could exceed 50% on carrots, onions and cereals and were most pronounced on sandy soils. In many cases, nematode problems started 5 to 10 years after conversion to organic farming. The survey indicated that plant-parasitic nematodes are widely spread in organic farming in Germany and can cause severe damage which may result in complete loss of the crop.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids of Chromolaena odorata act as nematicidal agents and reduce infection of lettuce roots by Meloidogyne incognita

Abstract

1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) represent a class of secondary plant compounds that are active in defence against herbivory. They are present in Chromolaena odorata, one of the most invasive weeds of Asia and Africa. In vitro studies demonstrate that pure PAs from C. odorata roots have nematicidal effects on the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, even at concentrations of 70-350 ppm. In vivo experiments show that mulch or aqueous crude extracts from C. odorata roots reduce the infection of lettuce by M. incognita. Thus, the use of PA-containing plants appears to be a valuable element for integrated nematode management.

Plant-parasitic nematodes in soil-less culture systems

Abstract

The development from growing plants in field soil to soil-less culture systems has not resulted in the elimination of problems caused by plant-parasitic nematodes. Species of Meloidogyne and Radopholus have been reported to occur in soil-less culture systems, such as flower crops. The reasons for initial nematode infestation are numerous but the primary reason is likely to be infested plant material. Since nematodes are not expected in soil-less systems, they are often overlooked. However, extension specialists report an increasing occurrence of plant-parasitic nematodes in soil-less culture systems and nematodes seem to be more prevalent than is often thought likely. In an attempt to increase the awareness of the prevalence of plant-parasitic nematodes in soil-less culture systems, this short paper summarises incidences of nematode detections and reviews methods for their detection and strategies for their control.

Endophytic and ectophytic potato-associated bacterial communities differ in structure and antagonistic function against plant pathogenic fungi

Differences between endophytic and ectophytic bacterial communities with stress on antagonistic bacteria, were studied by comparing the composition of communities isolated from the rhizosphere, phyllosphere, endorhiza and endosphere of field-grown potato plants using a multiphasic approach. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of 16S rDNA of the bacterial communities revealed discrete microenvironment-specific patterns. To measure the antagonistic potential of potato-associated bacteria, a total of 2648 bacteria were screened by dual testing of antagonism to the soilborne pathogens Verticillium dahliae and Rhizoctonia solani. Composition and diversity of bacterial antagonists were mainly specific for each microenvironment. The rhizosphere and endorhiza were the main reservoirs for antagonistic bacteria and showed the highest similarity in their colonisation by antagonists. The most prominent species of all microenvironments was Pseudomonas putida, and rep-PCR with BOX primers showed that these isolates showed microenvironment-specific DNA fingerprints. P. putida isolates from the rhizosphere and endorhiza gave nearly identical fingerprints confirming the high similarity of bacterial populations. The phlD gene, involved in the production of the antibiotic 2,4-diacetyl-phloroglucinol, was found only among Pseudomonas isolates from the rhizosphere and endorhiza. Evaluation of the bacterial isolates for biocontrol potential based on fungal antagonism and physiological characteristics resulted in the selection of five promising isolates from each microenvironment. The most effective isolate was Serratia plymuthica 3Re4-18 isolated from the endorhiza.

Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and a non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum on Meloidogyne incognita infestation of tomato

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and non-pathogenic strains of soil-borne pathogens have been shown to control plant parasitic nematodes. As AM fungi and non-pathogenic fungi improve plant health by different mechanisms, combination of two such partners with complementary mechanisms might increase overall control efficacy and, therefore, provide an environmentally safe alternative to nematicide application. Experiments were conducted to study possible interactions between the AM fungus Glomus coronatum and the non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum strain Fo162 in the control of Meloidogyne incognita on tomato. Pre-inoculation of tomato plants with G. coronatum or Fo162 stimulated plant growth and reduced M. incognita infestation. Combined application of the AM fungus and Fo162 enhanced mycorrhization of tomato roots but did not increase overall nematode control or plant growth. A higher number of nematodes per gall was found for mycorrhizal than non-mycorrhizal plants. In synergisms between biocontrol agents, differences in their antagonistic mechanisms seem to be less important than their effects on different growth stages of the pathogen.

Induced systemic resistance of selected endophytic bacteria against Meloidogyne incognita on tomato

In previous work, the four endophytic bacteria Pantoea agglomerans MK-29, Cedeca davisae MK-30, Enterobacter spp. MK-42 and Pseudomonas putida MT-19 were shown to reduce Meloidogyne incognita on tomato when applied as a seed treatment and/or soil drench. The objective of this work was to study these bacteria for their potential to induce systemic resistance against root knot nematodes on tomato. To guarantee spatial separation between inducing agent and pathogen a split-root system was chosen and inoculated with the bacteria as a drench application on one side of the root system and 6 days later with 2000 juveniles of Meloidogyne incognita on the other side of the split-root system. The experiment was maintained in the greenhouse and repeated once. The penetration rate of juveniles as well as the total number of root-knot galls and egg masses was recorded. Treatment with all four bacteria significantly reduced juvenile penetration and the number of root-knot galls when compared with the non-treated control. Induced systemic resistance is considered a possible control mechanism of endophytic bacteria against root-knot nematodes.

Effects of natural products on soil organisms and plant health enhancement

TerraPy, Magic Wet and Chitosan are soil and plant revitalizers based on natural renewable raw materials. These products stimulate microbial activity in the soil and promote plant growth. Their importance to practical agriculture can be seen in their ability to improve soil health, especially where intensive cultivation has shifted the biological balance in the soil ecosystem to high numbers of plant pathogens. The objective of this study was to investigate the plant beneficial capacities of TerraPy, Magic Wet and Chitosan and to evaluate their effect on bacterial and nematode communities in soils. Tomato seedlings (Lycopersicum esculentum cv. Hellfrucht Frühstamm) were planted into pots containing a sand/soil mixture (1:1, v/v) and were treated with TerraPy, Magic Wet and Chitosan at 200 kg/ha. At 0, 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after inoculation the following soil parameters were evaluated: soil pH, bacterial and fungal population density (cfu/g soil), total number of saprophytic and plant-parasitic nematodes. At the final sampling date tomato shoot and root fresh weight as well as Meloidogyne infestation was recorded. Plant growth was lowest and nematode infestation was highest in the control. Soil bacterial population densities increased within 24 hours after treatment between 4-fold (Magic Wet) and 19-fold (Chitosan). Bacterial richness and diversity were not significantly altered. Dominant bacterial genera were Acinetobacter (41%) and Pseudomonas (22%) for TerraPy, Pseudomonas (30%) and Acinetobacter (13%) for Magic Wet, Acinetobacter (8.9%) and Pseuodomonas (81%) for Chitosan and Bacillus (42%) and Pseudomonas (32%) for the control. Increased microbial activity also was associated with higher numbers of saprophytic nematodes. The results demonstrated the positive effects of natural products in stimulating soil microbial activity and thereby the antagonistic potential in soils leading to a reduction in nematode infestation and improved plant growth.

Potato-associated bacteria and their antagonistic potential towards plant-pathogenic fungi and the plant-parasitic nematode Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood

To study the effect of microenvironments on potato-associated bacteria, the abundance and diversity of bacteria isolated from the rhizosphere, phyllosphere, endorhiza, and endosphere of field grown potato was analyzed. Culturable bacteria were obtained after plating on R2A medium. The endophytic populations averaged 10(3) and 10(5) CFU/g (fresh wt.) for the endosphere and endorhiza. respectively, which were lower than those for the ectophytic microenvironments, with 10(5) and 10(7) CFU/g (fresh wt.) for the phyllosphere and rhizosphere, respectively. The composition and richness of bacterial species was microenvironment-dependent. The occurrence and diversity of potato-associated bacteria was additionally monitored by a cultivation-independent approach using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of 16S rDNA. The patterns obtained revealed a high heterogeneity of community composition and suggested the existence of microenvironment-specific communities. In an approach to measure the antagonistic potential of potato-associated bacteria, a total of 440 bacteria was screened by dual testing for in vitro antagonism towards the soilborne pathogens Verticillium dahliae and Rhizoctonia solani. The proportion of isolates with antagonistic activity was highest for the rhizosphere (10%), followed by the endorhiza (9%), phyllosphere (6%), and endosphere (5%). All 33 fungal antagonists were characterized by testing their in vitro antagonistic mechanisms, including their glucanolytic, chitinolytic, pectinolytic, cellulolytic, and proteolytic activity, and by their BOX-PCR fingerprints. In addition, they were screened for their biocontrol activity against Meloidogyne incognita. Overall, nine isolates belonging to Pseudomonas and Streptomyces species were found to control both fungal pathogens and M. incognita and were therefore considered as promising biological control agents.

Importance of the O-antigen, core-region and lipid A of rhizobial lipopolysaccharides for the induction of systemic resistance in potato to Globodera pallida

Abstract

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of the rhizobacterium Rhizobium etli strain G12 are involved in the induction of systemic resistance in potato roots towards the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida. In the present study, the wild type strain G12 and three LPS-mutant strains with truncated O-antigens all reduced nematode infection of potato plants to about 30% that of untreated controls. Therefore, the O-antigen of the bacterial LPS cannot be the sole inducer of the resistance mechanism. In further search of the mode of action, the isolated core-region and lipid A-fraction of the LPS of one O-antigen-mutant strain R. etli #4-153 were tested for elicitor activity. Using a split-root system, which provides spatial separation of the inducing agent from the parasite, it was shown that both the entire LPS and its core-region systemically reduced G. pallida infection to 45% that of the untreated control. In contrast, the lipid A-fraction was less effective; the 20% reduction in nematode infection was not different from the control nor from the LPS and core region treatments. It is concluded that the oligosaccharides of the core-region are the main trigger of systemic resistance in potato roots towards G. pallida infection.

Endophytic Colonization of Plants by the Biocontrol Agent Rhizobium etli G12 in Relation to Meloidogyne incognita Infection

ABSTRACT The external and internal colonization of potato and Arabidopsis roots by the biocontrol strain Rhizobium etli G12 containing a plasmidborne trp promoter green fluorescent protein transcriptional fusion, pGT-trp, was studied in the presence and absence of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Plant colonization behavior and biocontrol potential of the marked strain G12(pGT-trp) was not altered compared with the parental strain. Plasmid pGT-trp was stable for more than 80 generations without selection and conferred sufficient fluorescence to detect single bacterial cells in planta. Although bacteria were found over the entire rhizoplane, they preferentially colonized root tips, the emerging lateral roots, and galled tissue caused by Meloidogyne infestation. Internal colonization of potato roots was mainly observed in epidermal cells, especially root hairs. G12(pGT-trp) colonization was also observed in inner Arabidopsis root tissues in areas of vascularization. In the presence of M. incognita, G12(pGT-trp) colonized the interior of nematode galls in high numbers. In some cases, bacterial colonization even extended from the galled tissue into adjacent root tissue. The internally colonized sites in roots were often discontinuous. Fluorescence microscopy of gfp-tagged rhizobacteria was a sensitive and a rapid technique to study external and internal colonization of plant roots by bacteria interacting with nematodes.

Influence of plant species on the biological control activity of the antagonistic rhizobacterium Rhizobium etli strain G12 toward the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita

The influence of plant species on the antagonistic activity of the rhizosphere bacterium Rhizobium etli G12 towards the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita was studied. The crops tested were tomato, cucumber, cotton, soybean and pepper. The plants were evaluated for the following parameters: root gall-index, total number of galls and egg masses of M. incognita, as well as shoot and root fresh weight and root length. Results indicated a clear influence of plant species on the ability of R. etli G12 to reduce nematode infection. Based on the root gall index, nematode control by R. etli G12 was higher on vegetables (tomato, cucumber, pepper) than on field crops (soybean, cotton). Reduction in galling ranged from 17% for cotton to 50% for tomato. R. etli G12 also reduced the actual number of galls produced. The reduction in the number of galls produced between crops was not affected significantly as was seen when a galling index was used to measure activity. The reduction in the number of galls was similar in level for all the crops studied and ranged from 34% for cucumber to 47% for tomato. There was a significant reduction in the number of egg masses produced by the females ranging from 37% for soybean to 70% for pepper. This indicated a direct effect on female development in the root after penetration or delayed penetration on certain crops. The bacteria caused significant increases in shoot fresh weight from 11% for soybean to 31% for pepper and in root fresh weight from 3% for soybean to 39% for tomato and in root length from 11% for cucumber to 24% for pepper. R. etli G12 gave significant control of M. incognita on a broad range of host plants, but the level of control varied. The suitability of each plant species, therefore, must be examined before R. etli G12 can be recommend for control of this nematode.

Lipopolysaccharides of Rhizobium etli strain G12 act in potato roots as an inducing agent of systemic resistance to infection by the cyst nematode Globodera pallida

Recent studies have shown that living and heat-killed cells of the rhizobacterium Rhizobium etli strain G12 induce in potato roots systemic resistance to infection by the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida. To better understand the mechanisms of induced resistance, we focused on identifying the inducing agent. Since heat-stable bacterial surface carbohydrates such as exopolysaccharides (EPS) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are essential for recognition in the symbiotic interaction between Rhizobium and legumes, their role in the R. etli-potato interaction was studied. EPS and LPS were extracted from bacterial cultures, applied to potato roots, and tested for activity as an inducer of plant resistance to the plant-parasitic nematode. Whereas EPS did not affect G. pallida infection, LPS reduced nematode infection significantly in concentrations as low as 1 and 0.1 mg ml(-1). Split-root experiments, guaranteeing a spatial separation of inducing agent and challenging pathogen, showed that soil treatments of one half of the root system with LPS resulted in a highly significant (up to 37%) systemic induced reduction of G. pallida infection of potato roots in the other half. The results clearly showed that LPS of R. etli G12 act as the inducing agent of systemic resistance in potato roots.

Activity and Differential Induction of Chitinase Isozymes in Soybean Cultivars Resistant or Susceptible to Root-knot Nematodes

Host physiological events in relation to infestation by parasitic nematodes are not well documented. Soybean plant responses to Meloidogyne incognita infestation were compared to resistant (Bryan) and susceptible (Brim) cultivars at 0, 1, 3, 10, 20, and 34 days after infestation (DAI). The resistant cultivar had higher chitinase activity than the susceptible cultivar at every sample time beginning at 3 DAI. Results from isoelectric focusing gel electrophoresis analyses indicated that three acidic chitinase isozymes with isoelectric points (pIs) of 4.8, 4.4, and 4.2 accumulated to a greater extent in the resistant compared to the susceptible cultivar following challenge. SDS-PAGE analysis of root proteins revealed that two proteins with molecular weights of approximately 31 and 46 kD accumulated more rapidly and to a higher level in the resistant than in the susceptible cultivar. Additionally, three major protein bands (33, 22, and 20 kD) with chitinase activity were detected with a modified SDS-PAGE analysis in which glycolchitin was added into the gel matrix. These results indicate that higher chitinase activity and early induction of specific chitinase isozymes may be associated with resistance to root-knot nematode in soybean.

Bacterial endophytes in agricultural crops

Endophytic bacteria are ubiquitous in most plant species, residing latently or actively colonizing plant tissues locally as well as systemically. Several definitions have been proposed for endophytic bacteria; in this review endophytes will be defined as those bacteria that can be isolated from surface-disinfested plant tissue or extracted from within the plant, and that do not visibly harm the plant. While this definition does not include nonextractable endophytic bacteria, it is a practical definition based on experimental limitations and is inclusive of bacterial symbionts, as well as internal plant-colonizing nonpathogenic bacteria with no known beneficial or detrimental effects on colonized plants. Historically, endophytic bacteria have been thought to be weakly virulent plant pathogens but have recently been discovered to have several beneficial effects on host plants, such as plant growth promotion and increased resistance against plant pathogens and parasites. In general, endophytic bacteria originate from the epiphytic bacterial communities of the rhizosphere and phylloplane, as well as from endophyte-infested seeds or planting materials. Besides gaining entrance to plants through natural openings or wounds, endophytic bacteria appear to actively penetrate plant tissues using hydrolytic enzymes like cellulase and pectinase. Since these enzymes are also produced by pathogens, more knowledge on their regulation and expression is needed to distinguish endophytic bacteria from plant pathogens. In general, endophytic bacteria occur at lower population densities than pathogens, and at least some of them do not induce a hypersensitive response in the plant, indicating that they are not recognized by the plant as pathogens. Evolutionarily, endophytes appear to be intermediate between saprophytic bacteria and plant pathogens, but it can only be speculated as to whether they are saprophytes evolving toward pathogens, or are more highly evolved than plant pathogens and conserve protective shelter and nutrient supplies by not killing their host. Overall, the endophytic microfloral community is of dynamic structure and is influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, with the plant itself constituting one of the major influencing factors. Since endophytic bacteria rely on the nutritional supply offered by the plant, any parameter affecting the nutritional status of the plant could consequently affect the endophytic community. This review summarizes part of the work being done on endophytic bacteria, including their methodology, colonization, and establishment in the host plant, as well as their role in plant–microbe interactions. In addition, speculative conclusions are raised on some points to stimulate thought and research on endophytic bacteria.Key words: endophytic bacteria, methods, localization, diversity, biological control.

Application of the Scholander pressure bomb to studies on endophytic bacteria of plants

The Scholander pressure bomb system, which expresses vascular plant sap, was compared with the trituration method, in which roots are surface disinfested and triturated, for recovery of endophytic bacteria. The two methods were compared for recovery of indigenous and introduced endophytes from roots of several plant genera. The pressure bomb method was acceptable for routine recovery of endophytes from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), soybean (Glycine max), and bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), but owing to tissue collapse under pressure, the method did not work reliably for cucumber (Cucumis sativa) or tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) seedlings. High bacterial densities on the root surface, experimentally obtained by dipping cotton roots into a suspension of Enterobacter asburiae JM22 immediately prior to processing, did not affect the population densities of recovered indigenous endophytic bacteria by the pressure bomb technique but resulted in increased bacterial densities for the trituration method. Internal populations of JM22 following application as a seed treatment were statistically equivalent with the trituration and pressure bomb techniques. Analysis of taxonomic diversity of a group of indigenous endophytes recovered with the trituration and pressure bomb techniques indicated some differences between the two groups. The total number of bacterial genera and species recovered was greater using the pressure bomb method. Gram-positive species, such as Bacillus spp., were more frequently isolated with the trituration method than with the pressure bomb method. Agrobacterium radiobacter and less common species were more often isolated using the pressure bomb technique. Pseudomonas spp. and Phyllobacterium spp. were recovered with equal frequencies using both techniques. These results suggest that the two techniques sample two different internal habitats available for colonization by endophytic bacteria, i.e., the trituration method recovering mainly endophytes residing in the root cortex and the pressure bomb method detecting vascular colonists. A combination of both methods is recommended for understanding the full pattern of internal plant colonization by endophytic bacteria.Key words: endophytic bacteria, Scholander pressure bomb, isolation method, cotton.

Bacterial endophytes in cotton: location and interaction with other plant-associated bacteria

Investigations were conducted to determine if biological control agent Pseudomonas fluorescens 89B-61 could colonize cotton tissues systemically and if internal colonization by a known endophytic bacterium, Enterobacter asburiae JM22, was influenced by the presence of other plant-associated bacteria. Following seed treatment, Pseudomonas fluorescens 89B-61 colonized cotton roots both externally and internally at mean population densities of 8.7 × 105 CFU/g and 1.1 × 103 CFU/g, respectively. However, bacteria were not detected in cotyledons, leaves, or stems. After inoculation onto leaves, Pseudomonas fluorescens 89B-61 established a mean internal population density of 1.6 × 104 CFU/g leaf tissue. Following stem injection, Pseudomonas fluorescens 89B-61 did not colonize roots or leaves. Pseudomonas fluorescens 89B-61 was localized on the root surface concentrated in grooves between epidermal cells, below collapsed epidermal cells, and in intercellular spaces close to the root epidermis, as identified by immunogold labeling of the bacterial membrane. Combined application of E. asburiae JM22 with another endophyte, Paenibacillus macerans Tri2-10, resulted in significantly lower internal populations of E. asburiae JM22 compared with treatment with E. asburiae JM22 alone. However, when coinoculated with a rhizosphere colonist, Micrococcus agilis strain 2RD-11, the colonization density of E. asburiae JM22 was not negatively affected. The results suggest that the internal colonization of cotton by bacteria with biological control activity may be an important aspect in their capacity to protect host plants against plant pathogens. The extent of internal colonization was shown to be influenced by other bacterial colonists.Key words: endophytic bacteria, location, interaction, cotton.