Lesion nematodes primarily feed within newly formed feeder roots of fruit trees.
Dagger nematodes feed along root surfaces and serve as vectors for transmitting tomato ringspot virus. Parasitic nematodes, especially, are more likely to build up to a damaging level in sandy and loamy soils than in the heavier clay soils. Damage by this disease complex can cause moderate to severe loss of tree vigor resulting in stunted vegetative growth and tree development, and a limited to non-profitable crop performance. Potential orchard replant sites should be prepared carefully. Before replanting old orchards, old roots should be removed.