Nematodes

(Meloidogyne incognita, M. javanica and M. arenaria)

Credits: Biovision-Infonet

**Root-knot nematodes** *(Meloidogyne incognita / M. javanica)* Roots of severely attacked (left) and healthy plant (right). Affected plants are normally stunted and eventually wilt and die. The most characteristic symptom is formation of root galls (knots) and these can be seen with the naked eye. Affected roots rot.
(c) A. M. Varela, icipe

Amongst nematodes infesting passion fruit the root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita, M. javanica and M. arenaria), are the most serious pests.

Characteristic symptoms of infestation by root-knot nematodes are formation of galls or knots on roots, yellowing of leaves, stunting and eventual wilting of the affected plants.

What to do:

Rotate with cassava, cereals, maize, Baby corn, sweet corn, sweet potato, onions, cabbages / kale, garlic or fodder grasses (e.g. Sudan grass).
Use of tolerant rootstocks (e.g. P. caerula).
Maintain high organic matter (farmyard manure / compost) in the soil.
Incorporation of neem into planting at transplanting.

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