How can we apply nematode population dynamics to agroecosystems?

Professor, Entomology

The MSU nematology program involves research, teaching, and extension responsibilities. Most of the research deals with the ecology of plant parasitic nematodes with special reference to host-parasite relationships and nematode population dynamics. Pratylenchus penetrans, Meloidogyne hapla, and Heterodera glycines have been used most extensively as model systems. Information about the ecology of P. penetrans associated with Solanum tuberosum has been incorporated into a simulation model that is used for the initial evaluation of additional research hypotheses. This activity is being conducted jointly with other researchers at MSU and other Land Grant Institutions. The research has also led to the discovery of Meloidogyne nataliei and Cactodera milleri and the detection of H. glycines, H. avenae and H. carotae in Michigan.

The Cooperative Extension Service part of the program includes the operation of a nematode diagnostic and advisory laboratory, designed for use by all citizens of the state of Michigan. The teaching program consists of academic instruction in nematology for both undergraduates and graduate students.

Selected Publications

Bird, G.W. and D.C. Ramsdell. 1985. Population trends and vertical distribution of plant-parasitic nematodes associated with Vitis labrusca L. in Michigan. J. Nematol. 17:100-107.

Caswell, E.P., A.E. MacGuidwin, K. Milne, C.E. Nelson , I.J. Thomason and G.W. Bird. 1986. A simulation model of Heterodera schachtii infecting Beta vulgaris. J. Nematol. 18:512-519.

Bird, G.W. 1989. The Integrated Pest Management Experience. In Reform and Innovation: Planning for the 1990 Farm Bill, U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, pp. 31-41. S. Prt. 101-61.

Bird, G.W., T. Edens, F. Drummond and E. Groden. 1990. Design of Pest Management Systems for Sustainable Agriculture. In Sustainable Agriculture in Temperate Zones, C.A. Francis, C.B. Fora, and L.D. King (eds.), pp.55-110. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. N.Y.

Bird, G.W. and J. Ikerd. 1993. Sustainable agriculture: A twenty-first-century system. Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science 529:92-100.