PAPAS: Actionable Science Against Nematodes

Potato production in the U.S. faces challenges from root-knot nematodes (RKN, Meloidogyne spp.) and threats from potato cyst nematodes (PCN) Globodera pallida and Globodera rostochiensis. RKN can infect potato tubers, leading to surface blemishes that lower their market value. PCN are classified as quarantined pests in the U.S. and, if not effectively managed, can result in yield losses of up to 80%. With limited or no resistant potato varieties currently available for either PCN or RKN, growers largely depend on nematicides for effective control. The NIFA-SCRI coordinated agricultural project, Systems Approach to Controlling Nematodes in U.S. Potato Production, aims to develop an integrated management strategy to address the threat of plant-parasitic nematodes and safeguard the potato industry. This group of scientists, educators, and industry is also known as PAPAS: Actionable Science Against Nematodes. Our systems approach involves developing new molecular diagnostic tools and then modeling nematode infestations to assess how management practices influence nematode population levels. We are also developing an AI platform to integrate and analyze potato–nematode data to help growers with management decisions. Our research determined that depending on the state, nematode infestations are projected to cut farmgate revenues by approximately $332,000 to $570,000 per 100 acres and resistant varieties would be the best economic option to combat nematodes. Therefore, several approaches using molecular and traditional breeding have been undertaken to accelerate the development of resistant potato varieties. We have also leveraged the nematode suppressive potential of the trap crop Solanum sisymbriifolium. Our research has shown that S. sisymbriifolium produces an array of toxic compounds that affect nematode egg hatching and juvenile viability that could be further developed into novel pesticides. Lastly, an ongoing outreach effort aims to enhance potato growers' understanding of nematodes. Educational resources—including fact sheets, videos, and general information—are available at http://potatonematodes.org.