Preliminary research shows Holganix reduces nematodes

Holganix released preliminary results from research underway on Holganix technology and nematodes at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The nematodes being studied include pathogenic root-knot and soybean cyst nematodes.

While studies are still ongoing, preliminary results have shown a 75 percent reduction in pathogenic nematodes with Holganix technology in a lab setting and a 50 percent reduction in pathogenic nematodes in a field setting, according to the company.

Pathogenic nematodes are microscopic round worms that represent a large problem for growers and turf professionals. According to a report published by the Society of Nematologists, pathogenic nematodes are responsible for an estimated 14 percent loss of all economically important crops worldwide, translating to more than $100 billion annually.

Pathogenic nematodes feed on plant roots, damaging them and draining nutrients from the plant, decreasing yields and increasing the plant’s susceptibility to other stresses.

Holganix technology is “complex,” said Kris Nicholas Lambert, Ph.D., the researcher conducting the trials. “There’s a lot of things going on in the jug and it is difficult to state with certainty why Holganix technology is producing results.” He has three theories about the causes of these results:

• Holganix technology appears to confuse or incapacitate the nematode so it can’t migrate to the plant and cause harm.
• Holganix technology may be inhibiting soybean cyst nematode eggs from hatching.
• Microbes in Holganix technology may be attacking pathogenic nematodes.

Holganix said lab and field trials will have to be replicated before drawing conclusive results regarding the effect, mechanism and application of Holganix technology, when used as a treatment against pathogenic nematodes.