Cyst nematodes are 1-mm long roundworms that live on the roots of plants. PCN cause growth retardation and, at very high population densities, damage to the roots. The round cyst nematode Globodera rostochiensis, also known as the golden nematode is particularly severe on potato, tomato and eggplant. Other common cyst nematodes and their most important hosts are Heterodera avenae on cereals, H. glycines on soybeans, H. schachtii on sugar beets, crucifers and spinach.
Damage
Cyst nematode infections cause growth retardation and cysts on the roots as well as the proliferation of roots and production of shallow, bushy root systems. Weakened, the infected plants often become stunted and discolored; they may also wilt in strong sunlight. The root system is typically attenuated, plants often develop a mass of new rootlets close to the soil surface, in an attempt to compensate for the reduction or loss of normal root activity.
There are specific suitable solutions and integrated pest management strategies for combating different species of nematodes.
For more information contact your local BioBee field agent.
