Impact Of Phytonematodes On Citrus Yield In India: A Review Of Loss Estimates And Control Measures

• Author(s):

  Pooja A. Katare

• Keywords:

  Phytonematodes, Citrus Cultivation, Nematode Management, Meloidogyne Spp., Radopholus Similis, Root- Knot Nematodes, Yield Loss, Integrated Nematode Management (INM), Biological Control, Resistant Rootstocks, Soil Health, Diagnostic Tools, Sustainable

• Abstract:

  Phytonematodes Are A Significant Threat To Citrus Cultivation In India, Leading To Substantial Yield Losses And Affecting The Quality Of Fruits. Among The Most Damaging Species Are Meloidogyne Spp. (root-knot Nematodes), Radopholus Similis, And Tylenchulus Semipenetrans, Which Attack The Root System, Impair Nutrient And Water Uptake, And Promote Secondary Infections. Despite The Severity Of These Infestations, There Is A Lack Of Comprehensive, Region-specific Data On Nematode-induced Yield Losses, With Some Studies Estimating Up To 40% Reduction In Yield In Highly Affected Orchards. Traditional Chemical Control Methods, Though Effective In The Short Term, Pose Environmental Risks And Contribute To Nematode Resistance. Consequently, Integrated Management Strategies, Including Cultural Practices, Biological Control, Resistant Rootstocks, And Organic Amendments, Are Gaining Traction. However, Challenges Such As The High Cost Of Biological Agents, Insufficient Awareness Among Farmers, And A Lack Of Early Detection Tools Persist. Future Research Should Focus On Breeding Nematode-resistant Rootstocks, Developing Affordable Diagnostic Tools, And Promoting Sustainable Integrated Nematode Management (INM) Practices. Bridging These Research Gaps Is Essential For Improving The Resilience Of Citrus Farming In India And Reducing Dependency On Harmful Chemical Inputs.

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Other Details

• Paper id:

  IJSARTV11I3102806

• Published in:

  Volume: 11 Issue: 3 March 2025

• Publication Date:

  2025-03-15

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