Guava Root Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii) - A Menace in Guava Cultivation

Abstract

Meloidogyne enterolobii is an emerging species of root-knot nematode, is currently considered to be one of the most damaging root-knot nematode species in many countries. Guava root-knot nematode is very similar to our common root-knot nematode in the type of damage it causes and its host range and morphology. The nematodes can cause severe damage to plants, reducing yields and causing early death. Stunting, yellowing of plant foliage and early wilting during drought are also characteristic symptoms of nematodes. Nematicides are routinely used to manage root-knot nematodes in guava. However, with the ban of effective nematicides from the market owing to concerns about risks to human health and the environment, safe and effective alternative control measures are highly sought. The concept of integrated nematode management is targeted at prevention and population reduction of plant parasitic nematodes with the development of resistant varieties of fruit plants.