Parasitic Nematodes

Question 1

Root-knot nematodes

Answer 1

Plant
Causes approx. 5% global crop loss
J1 moults within the egg to J2
J2 is the infective stage
Activated by root diffusates
Penetrate root by physical force, thrusting by stylet, cellulolytic and pectolytic enzymes
Migrate intracellularly to root tip
Makes a U-turn to apical meristem
Initiates giant cell formation to supply nutrients
Becomes sedentary and moults to J3, J4 then adult