Important nematode problems and their management in Karnataka

Phytonematodes are a major threat to several agricultural and horticultural crops in Karnataka. Significant damage and crop loss incited by these worms affect successful cultivation of crops. They are of major concern particularly to crops grown under protected/ polyhouse conditions. Sufficient amount of work has been carried out by many scientists on various aspects of plant parasitic nematodes infesting crops in Karnataka. However, a comprehensive review paper on the nematodes of Karnataka is not available. Hence, an attempt has been made to review the work on major nematode pests of crop plants and some of their important aspects including management. This resulted in a wide range of information particularly on the root-knot nematode, burrowing nematode, cyst nematode, spiral nematodes etc., on several aspects starting from the survey till integrated management of nematodes on major crops.