Abstract:
Globally, more than 40 % of crop losses can be attributed to pest damage (Pedigo, 1996).
Yield losses due to plant-parasitic nematodes range from 8- 20 % in various crops (Table
1.1). However, in developing countries the loss may be as high as 25 to 50 %. The losses
due to the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne species) are heavy, and amount to millions of
dollars worldwide. In practice, this implies that many people who go hungry, especially in
developing countries, would have been fed if this plant pest had been controlled (Lucas,
Campbell and Lucas, 1985).
