Rosa H. Manzanilla-López - Böcker

Plant-parasitic nematodes are responsible for an estimated annual loss of US$100 billion worth of commodity, staple and industrial crops worldwide. With global changes in temperature, it is likely that this figure will increase as nematode pests thrive in previously unsuitable areas and increase their reproductive rate. Correct identification is essential in understanding nematode diversity and enabling management and control. Since the first edition of this book was published in 2012 (Mundiprensa, Mexico), advances in molecular techniques have transformed methods of studying and identifying species and proven helpful for disentangling species complexes. However, nematode crop damage can still be difficult to assess due to a lack of expertise (especially taxonomy) in making accurate diagnosis, and a lack of nematology courses and training within crop protection. This book addresses the need for a practical foundation course, and covers: · Biology, morphology, taxonomy and practical aspects of symptomatology, sampling, preparation and identification of nematodes using both classical and molecular approaches · Taxonomy, diversity and bionomics (e.g. biology, ecology, management) of the most economically important plant-parasitic nematode groups · Ecology (nematodes as bioindicators), biochemical and molecular processes involved in plant-nematode interactions, integrated pest management, quarantine issues, knowledge dissemination aspects and statistics This is an introductory text in practical nematology aimed at students of agronomy, biology, extension, phytosanitation and professionals involved in crop protection and plant disease diagnostics.

This volume reviews our current knowledge and novel research areas on Pochonia chlamydosporia, a cosmopolitan fungus occurring in soils as a saprophyte yet capable of colonizing the rhizosphere of crops as an endophyte and behaving as a parasite of eggs of plant-parasitic nematodes. The book is divided into six sections containing 18 chapters, starting with a historical background chapter, followed by 16 chapters, each contributed by experts, concerning those key aspects necessary to work with this biocontrol agent in a multidisciplinary treatise. Topics covered include systematics, biology, nematode-fungus interactions, nematode management strategies, secondary metabolites, and other methods including more novel research areas such as molecular, –omics, plant growth enhancement and endophytic abilities of P. chlamydosporia. The final chapter deals with the future perspectives of P. chlamydosporia research.