Evaluation of alfalfa ecotypes reactions (Medicago sativa L.) to the stem and bulb nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci)

Plant-parasitic nematodes significantly reduce crop production. The stem and bulb nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) is one of the important pathogen of several ornamental and field crops including alfalfa. In this study, the reactions of seven alfalfa ecotypes to the nematode were investigated under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was conducted based on completely randomized design with three replicates. The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) among inoculated ecotypes with the nematode in all morphological traits (except of root length) compared to the control. The nematode reproduced in all studied alfalfa ecotypes, but the rate of reproduction was different. The highest reproduction factor (RF) was observed on the ecotype Neishabouri (RF = 7.14) and the lowest on Feiz and Hamedani with reproduction factors of 1.24 and 1.85, respectively. The highest number of the nematode was observed in stems, rhizosphere and buds. The results showed that none of these ecotypes were resistant or tolerant to the stem and bulb nematode.