The history of plant and soil nematology in Australia and New Zealand, with particular reference to the contributions of six pioneering nematologists
Date
2008
Authors
Stirling, G.
Yeates, G.
Davies, K.
Hodda, M.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Australasian Plant Pathology, 2008; 37(3):203-219
Statement of Responsibility
G. R. Stirling, G. W. Yeates, K. Davies and M. Hodda
Conference Name
DOI
Abstract
The history of plant and soil nematology in Australia and New Zealand, with particular reference to the contributions of six pioneering nematologists G. R. Stirling A , E , G. W. Yeates B , K. Davies C and M. Hodda D A Biological Crop Protection Pty Ltd, 3601 Moggill Road, Moggill, Qld 4072, Australia. B Landcare Research, Private Bag 11052, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand. C Plant and Food Science, Waite Campus, The University of Adelaide, PMB 1, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia. D CSIRO Entomology, GPO Box 1700, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. E Corresponding author. Email: graham.stirling@biolcrop.com.au Abstract In an era of rapid technological advancement, it is easy to overlook those who established the knowledge base that underpins today’s research programs. This paper traces the history of plant and soil nematology in Australia and New Zealand and recognises six pioneers who contributed significantly to its development, namely N. A. Cobb, R. C. Colbran, H. R. Wallace, A. F. Bird, J. M. Fisher and W. C. Clark. Collectively, these scientists described many unique and economically important nematodes, advanced our understanding of the biology and ecology of both plant-parasitic and free-living species, laid the foundation for many of the nematode control measures that are in use today and also contributed to the development of the discipline of nematology at an international level.