Root-knot nematodes are plant-parasitic nematodes from the genus Meloidogyne. They exist in soil in areas with hot climates or short winters. About 2000 plants are susceptible to infection by root-knot nematodes and they cause approximately 5% of global crop loss. Root-knot nematode larva infect plant roots causing the development of root-knot galls that drain the plant's photosynthate and nutients. Infection of young plants may be lethal, while infection of mature plants causes decreased yield.

Reference

• Agrios, G. N. 1997. Plant Pathology, Academic Press, San Deigo

Roundworms