DISEASES OF CORN - ROOT LESION NEMATODE

Root lesion nematodes cause damage by burrowing into the root interior and causing death of root tissue. Subsequent inhibition of water and nutrient uptake leads to the above-ground symptoms described previously. Sites of nematode infections can also serve as points of entry for soil-borne plant pathogenic fungi and water molds, leading to further root decay.

In fields where a root lesion nematode problem is suspected, a pre-planting, quantitative soil test may be needed to determine if a nematicide treatment is necessary. Also, keep in mind that nematodes can be moved in any way that soil can be moved (e.g., on shoes, tools, farm equipment). Thus, if you have a field with a known nematode problem, be sure to use appropriate sanitation methods to ensure that you do not accidentally move nematodes from contaminated to non-contaminated fields.