
Nematodos
Root-knot nematodes: what they are, how they originate, and how to eliminate them effectively.
Root-Knot Nematodes
Meloidogyne Spp.
Pathogen:
Nematode
Type:
Risk to the plant:
HIGH



DESCRIPTION
WHO CAUSES IT?
Meloidogyne spp., commonly known as root-knot nematodes, are microscopic nematodes that parasitize a wide variety of plants. These pathogens have a complex interaction with their hosts. Adult females insert themselves into the roots of plants and deposit their eggs in an external gelatinous matrix. The larvae emerge from the eggs and move through the soil in search of new roots. Once the larvae penetrate the roots, they feed on the vascular tissue, causing the formation of characteristic galls or nodules. These galls interfere with the transport of water and nutrients in the plant, weakening it significantly. Females continue their reproductive cycle within the galls, while second-generation larvae search for new roots to infest, thus perpetuating the infection cycle.
SYMPTOMS
In pumpkins, root-knot nematodes cause a disease that manifests itself through a series of symptoms that affect both the root system and the general growth of the plant. Symptoms include the formation of galls on the roots, which can be seen with the naked eye. These galls obstruct the absorption of water and nutrients, leading to poor growth and the appearance of other symptoms. Infected plants may show chlorosis, reduction in leaf size and general wilting, especially during periods of water stress. Plants may also have lower yields and lower quality fruits.
- Formation of galls on the roots
- Poor growth
- Chlorosis (yellowing of leaves)
- Reduction in the size of the leaves
- General wilting
- Lower yield and lower quality fruits


TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
25-30°C
50-80%

HOW IS IT SPREAD?
Contaminated soil, Irrigation water, Agricultural tools, Infected plant material, Agricultural machinery, Earthworks

HOW TO REMOVE IT?
Home remedies
There are no home treatments
Chemical treatments
• AZADIRACTIN 1% (AS AZADIRACTIN A) [EC] P/V
• Azadirachtin 2.6% (AS AZADIRACTIN A) [EC] P/V
• 100% GARLIC EXTRACT [SC] P/V
• Garlic extract 45% [GR] P/P
• FLUOPYRAM 40% [SC] P/V
Authorized treatments in organic farming
• AZADIRACTIN 1% (AS AZADIRACTIN A) [EC] P/V
• Azadirachtin 2.6% (AS AZADIRACTIN A) [EC] P/V
• 100% GARLIC EXTRACT [SC] P/V
• Garlic extract 45% [GR] P/P
Insect allies
PREDATORY MITES
LADYBUGS
LACEWINGS
PARASITIC WASPS
HOVERFLIES OR PARASITIC FLIES
PREDATORY BUGS
There are no natural allies
Mycodiplosis oidii (predatory mosquito)












