Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica are highly damaging species, polyphagous and widespread in warmer regions of the world. Other species of significant economic importance are M. arenaria , M. graminicola , and M. hapla . This is partly attributable to the paucity of nematological expertise in national research services to diagnose the real cause of the problems. Indeed, even relatively well-resourced organizations such as the CG Centers often lack nematological expertise. Lack of awareness of nematodes and the problems they cause is also due to their cryptic lifestyle and complex mode of action.
Nematodes cause disruption of normal plant root growth and soil exploration for water and nutrients.
This understanding has not as yet been applied to the practical development of IPM strategies but is potentially very useful for this purpose. Building on this foundation, the SP-IPM nematology Task Force proposes to address both technical and organizational constraints and encourage the wider application of sustainable nematode management strategies.