Potato nematodes and their control measures: a review

Abstract

Root and tuber crops are the most important commodities produced in many subtropical and tropical regions. Potato, Solanum tuberosum L. is a major food crop in many countries and it is produced in any significant amount in developed countries. Certain nematodes recognised as major parasites of potato are cyst, root-knot and lesion nematodes. Losses vary depending upon the cultivar and predominant environmental conditions. Losses can reach 25% or more and these losses consist of direct damage to the plant as well as reduction in tuber quality. Also, anatomical studies proved that the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, caused giant cells as feeding sites in the stele region of potato roots accompanied with crushed and deformed xylem and vessel elements. Therefore, control measures depend upon the use of resistant cultivars, rotation with non-host plants, hot water treatment of infected tubers before planting, some biocontrol methods and utilisation of the nematicides as contact or as dips.