Lesion nematodes
scouted Aug. 15, 2024
- Scientific Name
- Pratylenchus sp.
- Background
- Soybeans in Pasquotank County, variety Pioneer 48A05E, were scouted and observed to have roughly 15% of plants affected by dieback, yellowing, stem rot, and root rot in localized patches. Initially, the problem appeared limited to small areas of stunted and dying plants, but conditions have progressively worsened following recent rainfall. There are now whole sections of rows that are dead, followed immediately by healthy rows, creating a repeating pattern across 6–8 rows. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- This issue was identified as Soybean lesion nematode, Pratylenchus spp. These nematodes feed by lysing, or breaking open, cells of the roots, forming cavities. This allows them to migrate intracellularly to continue feeding on healthy tissue. Necrotic lesions can be observed on the root as a result of the damage caused by feeding and movement. When populations are low, above-ground symptoms may not be present, but when populations are high, plants appear stunted, suffer from water and nutrient deficiencies, and eventually dieback.
- Resources
