Aggregated distribution of Ditylenchus dipsaci on broad bean seeds

SUMMARY The distribution of Ditylenchus dipsaci (Kühn) Filipjev between seeds in infested samples of broad bean seed was skewed so that the nematodes were concentrated on a few seeds. Such aggregation increases the likelihood of reproduction by the nematodes in infested plants and the consequent establishment of foci of infestation in the soil. These foci will be small and scattered giving the nematode the best chance of a finding a favourable environment in the field. The numbers of foci of infestation introduced by seed tend to be nearly constant, independent of the numbers of nematodes on the seed and therefore provide a stable unit of population.