Abstract
ABSTRACT: The accurate identification of root-knot nematode (RKN) species (Meloidogyne spp.) is essential for implementing management strategies. Methods based on the morphology of adults, isozymes phenotypes and DNA analysis can be used for the diagnosis of RKN. Traditionally, RKN species are identified by the analysis of the perineal patterns and esterase phenotypes. For both procedures, mature females are required. Over the last few decades, accurate and rapid molecular techniques have been validated for RKN diagnosis, including eggs, juveniles and adults as DNA sources. Here, we emphasized the methods used for diagnosis of RKN, including emerging molecular techniques, focusing on the major species reported in Brazil.
Highlights
The genus Meloidogyne comprises more than 100 species and its host range exceeds 3000 species of plants (HUNT & HANDOO, 2009)
Diagnostic methods Method based on morphology Morphological characteristics of males Head shape and stylet morphology of males are useful characteristics in the identification of some root-knot nematode (RKN) species, such as M. incognita, M. enterolobii, M. paranaensis and M. javanica (Figure 1)
Molecular methods Molecular techniques rely on the occurrence of polymorphisms in DNA sequences among groups of nematodes, especially in nuclear ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial DNA
Summary
The genus Meloidogyne comprises more than 100 species and its host range exceeds 3000 species of plants (HUNT & HANDOO, 2009). These nematodes are spread worldwide, with a high diversity of species in tropical and subtropical regions. RKN are sedentary endoparasites that induce the formation of giant cells in the roots, from which the nematode feed to complete its life cycle (BALDACCI-CRESP et al, 2015).The availability of water and nutrients to the plant decreases while the giant cells are located close to the root systems xylem and phloem. Morphological and biochemical alterations induced by nematode parasitism cause abnormal growth of plants, nutrient deficiency symptoms, roots with galls, forking and other deformations (MOENS et al, 2009)
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