Host suitability of five populations of wild tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) for nematode Nacobbus aberrans sensu lato

Abstract

Nacobbus aberrans sensu lato is one of the most important plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) in tomato crop. For the management of this PPN, it is important to study sustainable strategies such as genetic resistance, commonly found in crop wild relatives. In this regard, there was interest in knowing the response of local populations (Michoacán, Mexico) of wild tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) to the inoculation with second stage juveniles. Three experiments (E1, E2, and E3) were mounted. Five wild genotypes and one cultivated genotype (cv. Rio Grande) were evaluated. At 7 and 21 days after the inoculation (dai), the number of nematodes within the root was evaluated, and at the 45 and 60 dai root galling was recorded. In the E1 and E2 experiments, at 7 and 21 dai, the J2 and J3-J4 stages were found. In all three experiments, there was root galling, and at 60 dai egg production was evident. N. aberrans s.l. invaded the roots and completed its development and reproduction. These results reveal the suitability of the five Mexican populations of wild tomatoes as hosts of the nematode and suggest the need to explore other wild solanaceae as possible sources of resistance to the nematode.