Understanding the role of nematode parasites in regulating the pestiferous Iberian slug, Arion lusitanicus, in Norway

The primary objective of this project is to understand the role of nematode parasites in regulating the pestiferous slug Arion lusitanicus in Norway. The invasive form of A. lusitanicus is believed to have originated from Portugal/Iberian Peninsula hence the common name Iberian slug. The species was first recorded in Norway in 1988 and became a major pest during the early 1990s. A. lusitanicus is well established in Norway resulting in major damage to private gardens, horticultural fields and agricultur al crops. Current methods for controlling A. lusitanicus rely on chemical control, however many chemicals are toxic to non-target organisms. Therefore greater pressure is placed on biological control. To date, the most successful method for the biologi cal control of slugs in Europe is the nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. Unfortunately, studies show P. hermaphrodita has a poor effect on A. lusitanicus. Therefore greater knowledge of other slug-parasitic nematodes is required. Therefore the mai n objectives of this research project are to examine the distribution, diversity and prevalence of nematode parasites associated with A. lusitanicus slugs in Norway and compare to native range. The research project will involve collecting slugs from vari ous localities in Norway, dissecting them and examining them for the presence of internal nematode parasites. Identification of nematodes will be done using morphological and molecular techniques. Isolated nematodes will be cultured and tested on A. lusi tanicus slugs. Work will be conducted by Dr Solveig Haukeland (Norway) and Dr. Jenna Ross (UK). Dr Haukeland has long experience in working with the Iberian slug in Norway, whilst Dr Ross has many years of experience with slug-parasitic nematodes, patho genicity studies and molecular techniques. Therefore this project provides the ideal opportunity to promote international collaborations whilst strengthening the quality of Norwegian and British research.