Heterodera glycines-Soybean Association: A Rapid Assay Using Prun Seedlings

A 16-day bioassay to determine compatible and incompatible associations of soybeans and cyst nematodes is described. This permits large-scale experiments in the laboratory. Seedlings are placed between two sheets of moist paper towelling so that the root tips are even with the bottom edge. The towelling is then rolled and set on the surface of cyst-infested soil. Radicles are permitted to grow through the soil for 24 hours after which cotyledons and apical portions are trimmed to retard root growth. The plants are assembled in bundles and maintained in aerated water in test tubes for 15 days before counts of emerged nematodes are taken. This system is economical in both space and labor.