Root Knot Nematode
Meloidogyne spp.
moderate risk
other
Overview
Microscopic roundworms that attack plant roots causing characteristic galls. One of the most economically important crop pests worldwide.
Microscopic (not visible to naked eye). Identified by distinctive galls (knots) on roots. Galls 2-10mm, firm, round.
Prevention Strategies
- •Crop rotation with non-host plants (corn, grasses)
- •Soil solarization in summer
- •Resistant rootstocks for grafting
- •Marigolds (Tagetes) as trap crop or cover crop
Control Methods
- •Soil solarization (plastic mulch, 4-6 weeks hot weather)
- •Marigold incorporation into soil
- •Beneficial nematodes (different species)
- •Oxamyl nematicide for severe cases
- •Grafting onto resistant rootstocks
Interesting Facts
- •Responsible for $100+ billion in crop losses annually worldwide
- •Some 2,000 plant species are hosts
- •Marigolds are one of the few plants that actively repel and kill nematodes
- •Soil solarization can reduce populations by 90%