Detection and diagnosis of seed-borne and seed-associated nematodes

Abstract

Seed is a very good carrier of phytonematodes, especially for long distance dissemination. This transmission occurs either directly through seed infection or via seed contamination. Although in low rate, this transmission becomes a serious concern when trans-boundary movement of invasive alien nematode species flares up in epiphytotic proportion. Hence, detection and diagnosis of seed-borne and seed-associated nematode are significant for their protection. So far, various conventional methods are mostly employed for detection, but advancement of modern approaches, viz. serological or molecular techniques, speeds up the process with more accurate detection. Their robustness and specificity with greater resolution help in identification and discrimination of different species of seed-borne phytonematodes, thus strengthening phytosanitary programme and ensuring low risk in world trade. It also helps in pest risk analysis (PRA) of any pests having quarantine importance and development of national standards for import of seed and planting materials. Besides these, for the identification of pest-free area, production of certified seeds, and promotion of export quality raw plant products, detection of seed and seed-associated nematodes is very essential. Hence, detection is always considered as primary step for crop protection.