A new approach to identify species in Xiphinema americanum sensu lato.

Four putative species belonging to the X. americanum group are known to transmit American nepoviruses and these nematodes and viruses are listed in European quarantine legislation. Identification of species in this group is therefore of particular importance for phytosanitary purposes, but is problematic because of the similar morphology of the putative species. As part of the Synthesys project BE-TAF 1769, eight collaborative institutions contributed material to Fera for study. Video technology allowed the best records of type material and in conjunction with photographic images created a 'virtual' collection of images that relies less on the deteriorating quality of museum specimens. Revised definitions of lip region and tail shape are considered to be the most stable characters for differentiation. Position of the amphidial aperture, development of the odontostyle collar and some established morphometric characters are considered of limited use although they retain value for latter stages of identification.

Are nematode collections in danger of extinction?

The correct identification of pest organisms, including plant-parasitic nematodes, is the essential foundation for integrated pest programmes and government policy decisions involving trade. A plethora of identification methods have been developed but the basis for identification remains essentially morphological in nature, with invertebrate collections forming the ultimate reference facility. However, a continuing decline in funds for the preservation and curation of collections and for the development of taxonomists is leading to a deterioration in the quality of standards. The development of computer technology associated with digital images and their analysis provides the possibility of not only attracting resources but also of exposing collections to international use in ways not previously possible. The time is right to develop a European strategy to save and develop collections and taxonomy.

Storage mites culturing, sampling technique, identification and their role in housedust allergy in rural areas in the United Kingdom.

Patients with symptoms suggesting housedust mite allergy were tested to storage mites, housedust, and Dermatophagoides spp. Housedust was examined for mites. All patients responded to storage mites. Some were negative to Dermatophagoides. All houses proved to have storage mites in the dust as well as Dermatophagoides, mainly in food stores or pet beds. Storage mites, therefore, are involved in dust allergy.

Housedust mites (D. pteronyssinus) in pets' beds and their relation to dust allergy.

Houses were surveyed by dust sampling to examine the occurrence and significance of storage mites in rural areas in the U.K. As a part of this project pets' beds were sampled, and it was discovered that not only do they contain storage mites, but that in nearly all instances the classical housedust mite (D. pteronyssinus) was present in significant numbers.