Determination of distribution and density of dagger nematode Xiphinema index (Dorylaimida; Longidoridae) by morphological methods in vineyards of Uşak, Denizli and Manisa provinces

Viticulture is an important agriculture sector in Turkey. Xiphinema index Thorne and Allen (Dorylaimida; Longidoridae) an ectoparasitic nematode in vineyard areas, has direct economic impact on plant roots as well as economic importance as vector of the Grapevine Fanleaf Virus (GFLV). In this study, the presence, distribution and density of X. index vector nematodes were determined in vineyard areas in Uşak, Denizli and Manisa provinces in 2017-2018. As a result of our studies, 35 (20,83%) of 168 soil samples taken in 2017, and 34 (20,11%) of 169 soil samples taken in 2018 were found to be infested with this nematod. The mean population density of X. index was 1.82 ± 1.17 (individual / kg soil) in 2017 and 6.10 ± 3.22 (individual / kg soil) in 2018. In this study, the presence of vector nematode X. index in Uşak province was determined for the first time.