Question

Which nematode is known for causing 'root-knot' disease in plants?

• A. Heterodera avenae
• B. Meloidogyne incognita
• C. Pratylenchus penetrans
• D. Ditylenchus dipsaci

Hint:

Root-knot nematode = Meloidogyne incognita.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Meloidogyne incognita, commonly known as the root-knot nematode, is a plant-parasitic nematode that induces the formation of characteristic galls or "knots" on the roots of infected plants. These galls interfere with the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients, leading to stunted growth and yield losses. Management includes crop rotation, resistant varieties, and nematicides.

Answer 2

Name-to-Symptom Match: 'Root-knot' describes the visible symptom (galls/knots on roots) — match it to the nematode genus famous for causing exactly that.

Meloidogyne incognita is THE classic root-knot nematode, inducing gall formation that blocks water/nutrient uptake.

Heterodera avenae causes cyst disease, Pratylenchus penetrans causes lesion (not knot) symptoms, and Ditylenchus dipsaci causes stem/bulb rot — each has its own distinct, differently-named symptom.