Tropical Soil Infestation

Letter to the Editor MAY I broach a subject which, to my mind, is rather important, but one which may be easily overlooked? It is in regard to the larger land areas of New Guinea, Papua, etc.

These virgin lands are, at present, said to be free from infestation by or inci dence of, the insidious parasitic eel-worm or Nematode, in the soil. This destructive organism is visible only under a lens, and is still obscure to most men of agricul ture. The parasite obtains, in its teem ing millions, ip infected soils, and its behaviour, though clearly outlined by entomologists, is not well enough known.

Entrance is gained by the parasite to the delicate root systems of various food and crop plants. The roots suffer injury, lesions and swellings, and never again “thrive,” or produce as they should do.

It occurs to me that it would be shame ful if, through ignorance or lack of care, this Nematode 'should be permitted to gain entrance to clean lands now to be brought into cultivation, as this may mean that the man-on-the-land will soon find himself up against the same age-old pests and handicaps, as we have to combat and meet in the old land areas, long in cultivation.

Introduction of this organism is gen erally by way of imported plants (having Nematode - infested roots); infected samples of soil; hofses; and possibly muddy vehicles. Control methods tor this parasite are known, but are costly and troublesome. Prevention is the thing.

I am, etc.,

H. Charles Reed.

Apia. Samoa. 14/5/45.