The Impact of Root Lesion Nematodes on Woody Plants

Lesion or meadow nematodes are not as well known to the plantsmen as common root-knot species, yet they do cause injury to fruit trees, woody landscape plants, and to some extent, forest (nursery) trees. Studies by numerous researchers have demonstrated that Pratylenchus species cause wilting, off-color foliage, fruit reduction, less root growth and general growth suppression. Research highlights of the past several decades are discussed in terms of the general effects these soil-inhabiting species have on plants and points are raised concerning the future research needed to better assess the impact of lesion nematodes on plants.