Nematodes, also known as roundworms, are microscopic organisms and among the most abundant and diverse animals on Earth. In agriculture, they are recognised for two main reasons. Some species cause economic losses in crops such as grains, vegetables and fruit, although these plant-parasitic nematodes represent only a small proportion of the group. Many others are free-living and non-parasitic, playing important roles in soil ecosystems. Because of their diversity and ecological functions, nematodes can be used as biological indicators of soil health. Soil health refers to the ongoing capacity of soil to function as a living ecosystem that supports plants, animals and humans, including chestnut production. This presentation will explore how nematodes can help indicate soil health in orchards, why healthy soil biology matters and what options may be available to the chestnut industry. The webinar will also briefly touch on Crop Health Services at Agriculture Victoria and pests and diseases to focus on.
PRESENTER:
Dr Chantelle Girgan obtained a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences and Management, Nematode taxonomy and Plant-Protection in South Africa. Chantelle has extensive experience in the identification and enumeration of nematodes and has done work on nematodes in both natural and agricultural ecosystems, glasshouse trials with root-knot nematodes, nematode surveys, soil health and molecular studies of nematodes. Currently Chantelle is a Senior Diagnostician and Research Scientist at Agriculture Victoria (DEECA), leading a team of diagnosticians in the Crop Health Services team, in the diagnostics of plant pests and diseases in various crops.
