THE EDITOR, Madam:
Crop rotation has been practised from as far back as 200 B.C. as it is known that soil becomes 'sick' under monoculture, resulting in poor crop growth. Subsequent to the development of the microscope in the 17th century, it has been shown that the attack of roots by soil-inhabiting microbes is one of the reasons for the poor growth observed. So, why is there a sick soil syndrome occurring in Jamaica today?
Symptoms of soil-borne diseases are recognised, the causal agent identified and appropriate control measures recommended mainly by plant pathologists, including plant nematologists. Unlike the 1960s and early 1970s when there were several highly-trained plant pathologists working in Jamaica, few are currently available. In addition, some institutions responsible for crop care acknowledge the need for permanently employed agronomists, entomologists and plant breeders, but not for plant pathologists who would constantly monitor crops for the presence and population levels of microbes. Thus, diseases like root and crown rots, go unrecognised for years.
The situation may not be easy to remedy for the following reasons:
(1) The number of students registering for courses in plant protection, offered by the Department of Sciences, UWI, has declined markedly over the past 5 to 10 years as the students do not see viable options for employment.
(2) Some students who have acquired a Master's degree in the discipline cannot find suitable employment in research and have moved to other disciplines as varied as computer studies, management and sales, or have migrated to truly greener pastures.
(3) The subject matter covered in Plant Pathology is very wide. Hence, a person specialising in Molecular Plant Pathology, Plant Bacteriology or Postharvest Diseases may not necessarily have the expertise to deal with other areas, e.g. soil-borne diseases.
I had a dream which turned out to be unfeasible at the time. The dream was to see the establishment of a Plant Health Clinic which is well equipped and employs well-trained technical persons supervised by highly-trained, experienced scientists. This clinic would serve as a central sorting house for the diagnosis of pest, pathogen and nutrient problems of any crop and remedial measures recommended. Any new problem spotted would provide material for researchers at the various research institutions.
If crop production is to support Jamaica's economy in a meaningful way, then modern, efficient plant health service must be developed.
I am, etc.,
P. L. COATES-BECKFORD
Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer
Department of Life Sciences
University of the West Indies
Mona Campus
Kingston 7
