An overview of root-knot nematodes and their management

Root-knot nematode is a serious pest of various plants worldwide. It infests more than three thousand plant species. In Pakistan, root-knot is a major pest of vegetable, fruit trees, and ornamentals. Among the vegetables, tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes are severely infested by this pest. Moreover, this pest is responsible for causing up to 60-90% yield losses in potatoes, tomatoes and brinjal. The nematode is a sedentary and semi-endo parasite and causes galls in the roots. As a result, the transportation of water and nutrients to the shoots of plants is severely affected. The nematode is controlled by various control measures, including growing of resistant crops, by applying pesticides and biocontrol agents (BCAs) and by cultural practices. However, none of this control measure is purely effective against root-knot nematode. But nowadays novel approaches have been used to manage this pest. Keeping in view the importance of this pest, the present review is written to update information about the biology, epidemiology, symptomology and recent management strategies of this pest.