Lesion Nematodes
scouted Sept. 6, 2024
- Scientific Name
- Pratylenchus sp.
- Background
- Soybeans in Pasquotank County were scouted, and it was observed that 4% of the field was negatively affected. 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
