Lesion Nematodes
scouted Sept. 4, 2025
- Scientific Name
- Pratylenchus sp.
- Background
- Soybeans in Iredell County were being scouted, and it was observed that 65% of the field was affected by dieback, and healthy plants were short between 12 and 16 inches tall. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis. The fields were planted in early July, and the previous crop was wheat.
- Conclusion
- Lesion nematodes of soybean were identified in this sample. Lesion nematodes belong to the genus Pratylenchus and may cause economic damage in soybean production systems. When nematode population levels are low, above-ground symptoms may not be present, and when they are, they can be easily confused with nutrient and draught stress. When large lesion nematode populations are present the plants may dieback. The tow most effective management tactics for lesion nematodes are sanitation and application of chemical nematecides.
- Resources
