Nematode Pests of Plantation Crops

Abstract

The coconut palms grown in homestead and plantation situations suffer considerable damage due to infestation by plant-parasitic nematodes right from the seedling stage. Many plant feeder nematodes have been reported from coconut. Economically, the most important key nematode pest in India is the burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, a migratory endoparasite causing typical root lesions and rotting symptoms on tender roots. An extensive, widespread occurrence was recorded in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, causing a 30% yield loss in the coconut cropping system. Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp., the devastating nematode pest of vegetables, spices, medicinal and fruit intercrop/mixed crops under coconut cropping system, also caused significant yield loss. This chapter discussed symptoms caused by nematode pests and different management practices.

Keywords: M. incognita, Management, Nematodes, Plantation crops, Radopholus similis.

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