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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. 4 (2025)

Spatial and molecular characterization of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne) in Algerian vegetables: impact of soil and organic matter

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.10146
Submitted
19 June 2025
Published
19-11-2025 — Updated on 04-12-2025
Versions

Abstract

In Algeria, several species of root-knot nematodes belonging to the genus Meloidogyne, including M. incognita, M. arenaria and M. javanica, have been identified. These parasites are widespread in coastal market gardening areas and Saharan regions, where they constitute a major phytosanitary constraint, particularly for tomato crops, due to the economic losses they cause. In this  survey of 369 greenhouses  Meloidogyne infestation was detected  in 168 greenhouses , with infestation  rates varying by region: 100 % in Beni Saf (Ain Temouchent) and 70 % in Tipaza, while some areas of Mostaganem, Oran and Biskra showed no infestation. Furthermore, a molecular analysis using the ITS rDNA marker identified the species Meloidogyne incognita with a similarity of 99.54 % compared to the NeMITG7 reference sequence deposited in the GenBank database. These results are reinforced by a statistical analysis revealing a highly significant negative correlation between the organic matter content and the gall index (Spearman's Rho = -0.651; P < 0.01). suggesting that soils rich in organic matter are less conducive to infestation. Moreover, soil type appears to be a determining factor: clay soils showed no infestation, unlike sandy soils which recorded the highest gall indices, with an average of 6.98. These results highlight the importance of soil type and its organic matter content in root-knot nematode management and provide a basis for developing  control strategies adapted to local conditions.

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