Parasitic nematodes of quinoa in the Andean region of Bolivia

Abstract

Globodera spp., Nacobbus aberrans, and Thecavermiculatus andinus are nematodes that cause significant damage to Andean crops. They belong to different genera and species and, therefore differ in terms of their morphology, biology, and host-parasite relationships. Globodera spp. only attacks potato, whereas the other two nematode species are capable of damaging several Andean crops, including quinoa. However, research has identified lines or cultivars within host crops that behave as resistant and as "trap" or "antagonistic" plants. These could be incorporated into strategies for integrated management of Andean nematodes, which would benefit Andean farmers.