The control of trichostrongyle larvae (Nematoda) by fumigation in relation to their bionomics

Abstract

Laboratory experiments indicated that third-stage larvae of T. axei and T colubriformis were able to penetrate soil to a depth of 12 in. or more, although most larvae remained in the upper 2 in. No geotaxis was observed.Heavy downflows of water caused severe mortalities but did not affect the rate of movement of surviving larvae through the soil. Very limited random lateral movement occurred in turf, being more pronounced in the presence of faeces. Prolonged desiccation was extremely lethal to infective larvae. The activity of larvae was directly and linearly proportional to normal temperatures. The average activity of groups of larvae declined with time.The author wishes to acknowledge the assistance and facilities provided by Professor B. G. Peters and the other members of staff of Imperial College Field Station, and to thank Dr C. W. R. Spedding for helpful criticism and supplying culture lambs; and Dr T. E. Gibson and Dr P. Silverman for supplying pure cultures of trichostrongyle larvae.