Pratylenchus vulnus

Pratylenchus vulnus is a species of plant-parasitic nematode that is known to cause significant damage to a wide range of agricultural crops. It is commonly referred to as the Northern root-knot nematode or lesion nematode.

Taxonomy

The Pratylenchus vulnus belongs to the phylum Nematoda, class Secernentea, order Tylenchida, and family Pratylenchidae. It is one of the many species in the genus Pratylenchus.

Morphology

Pratylenchus vulnus is a small, slender nematode, typically measuring 0.5 to 0.8 mm in length. It has a stylet for feeding, and a well-developed metacorpus which serves as a pump for ingesting plant fluids.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Pratylenchus vulnus includes egg, four juvenile stages, and adult. The nematode feeds on the root tissues of host plants, causing cell death and the formation of brown lesions.

Hosts and Symptoms

Pratylenchus vulnus has a wide host range, including fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Infected plants often exhibit stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced yield. In severe infestations, the nematode can cause the death of the plant.

Management

Management of Pratylenchus vulnus involves a combination of cultural practices, biological control, and chemical control. Crop rotation with non-host plants, use of nematode-resistant varieties, and application of nematicides are common strategies for managing this pest.

See Also

• Nematode
• Plant Pathology
• Agriculture

References

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