Rotylenchulus reniformis

Rotylenchulus reniformis is a species of plant-parasitic nematodes, commonly known as the reniform nematode. It is a significant pest of many important agricultural crops, causing substantial yield losses worldwide.

Taxonomy

The reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis, belongs to the phylum Nematoda, a diverse group of roundworms. It is classified under the family Hoplolaimidae, which comprises several species of plant-parasitic nematodes.

Morphology

Rotylenchulus reniformis is characterized by its kidney-shaped (reniform) mature females, from which it derives its common name. The males are vermiform (worm-shaped) and are generally smaller than the females.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Rotylenchulus reniformis involves six stages: egg, four juvenile stages, and adult. The second-stage juvenile is the infective stage, which invades the host plant roots and establishes a feeding site.

Host Range and Distribution

Rotylenchulus reniformis has a wide host range, infecting many economically important crops such as cotton, soybean, and pineapple. It is distributed globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Economic Impact

The reniform nematode is a significant agricultural pest. It causes damage to the host plants by feeding on the root tissues, leading to reduced plant growth and yield.

Management

Management of Rotylenchulus reniformis involves an integrated approach, including crop rotation with non-host plants, use of nematicides, and breeding for host plant resistance.

See Also

• Plant Pathology
• Nematode
• Agricultural Pest Management