Spatial Patterns of Host-Pathogen Complex: A Geostatistical Insight

Present study discussed spatial pattern techniques with respect to plant pathogens. Study was framed under four segments related with (a) basics of spatial pattern analytical tools and ideal strategies for their detection, (b) overview of certain techniques largely being utilized for different host-pathogens, (c) multivariate analysis to identify patterns for use of various spatial indices and finally (d) identification of gaps relate with spatial pattern analysis of pathogens. Spatial pattern indices used in fifty nine host-pathogen studies were evaluated and there utilization frequencies were accessed through skweness, kurtosis, Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Chi-square. Agglomerative Hierarchical Cluster classified the studies into six different groups. Following gaps were identified (a) some indices still not worked out for pathogens spatial patterns detection (b) a generalized framework still requires for phylogenetic connection between hosts or with its family and with distribution patterns of pathogen, (c) inter and intra-steric (pathogen and host) factors controlling spatial patterns of pathogen rarely approached, (d) spatiotemporal aspects of pattern detection are also not fully explored and (e) very few studies have approached management practices based on spatial patterns of pathogens. Some open ended tasks are: what is the line of difference between specialized and non-specialized pathogen for their spatial pattern? Is the availability of high inoculums ensuring uniform pattern? (if all other conditions are conducive), factor that controls random and clumped patterns and information’s on year to year variations of pathogen spatial patterns with similar crop/host.