Bio-Ecological Assessment of the Cereal Cyst Nematode (Heterodera Avenae) in the North West of Algeria

Abstract

This study assesses the presence and population density of the cereal cyst nematode, Heterodera avenae, in cereal soils of the Relizane province in northwestern Algeria. Through a six-month sampling campaign, nematode cysts were extracted, counted, and analyzed morpho-biometrically using the Fenwick method. The results revealed a 40% prevalence rate, with low population densities ranging between 1 and 3 cysts per 500g of soil. Morphological and biometric measurements confirmed the identity of H. avenae. Environmental factors such as drought and cultural practices appear to influence population dynamics. These findings provide essential baseline data for the development of integrated pest management strategies in cereal production in Algeria.