Strongyloididae

Affected crops: Strongyloididae infestations primarily impact vegetables, berry crops, and ornamental plants. Crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, and various tuber vegetables are particularly susceptible to root-zone damage when grown in infested soils or greenhouse environments.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle is complex, involving both free-living and parasitic stages. Larvae migrate through the soil moisture film, penetrating plant roots or succulent stems. Rapid development and high survival rates are typically associated with high soil moisture levels and stable, moderate environmental temperatures.

Nature of damage and pathogenicity: Infestation results in severe necrosis, root galling, and stunted plant growth. The disruption of vascular function prevents the plant from absorbing essential nutrients and water. This physical damage often serves as an entry point for secondary bacterial and fungal pathogens, accelerating the plant's decline.

Management strategies: Implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) approach is essential for control:

• Practice strict crop rotation with non-host or trap crops.
• Employ soil solarization or steam sterilization in protected cultivation.
• Use certified, nematode-free seedlings and planting material.
• Apply biological agents such as nematophagous fungi or organic soil amendments to suppress population density.