First Report of Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne hapla (Chitwood, 1949) (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae) on Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Nym. ex A.W. Hill) in Türkiye

Abstract

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is an important culinary herb originated from the Mediterranean basin, where it still can be found in wild forms, and is taxonomically positioned in the Apiaceae family. In Turkey, it is cultivated extensively in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions, and in the Marmara Region. There are several diseases and pests affecting the yield and quality in the parsley cultivated areas. Root-knot nematodes are among the most important pests in winter crop production with the ability of a wide host plant range. Root-knot nematodes weaken the parsley plant, causing significant quality losses, and showing signs of stunting and yellowing of the leaves. In this study, parsley plants with typical symptoms of root-knot nematodes were detected in surveys conducted in Çanakkale province, Türkiye. Pure cultures of the root-knot nematode obtained from the roots of parsley were identified up to the species level. Species identification and diagnosis were made by morphological and morphometrical measurements from second-stage juveniles and female individuals obtained from pure cultures. As a result, Meloidogyne hapla was detected first time on parsley plants in Türkiye.