Root-knot nematodes are highly adaptable, obligate plant parasites (parasites that cannot reach adulthood without a host) that attack plant roots and establish a prolonged relationship with their hosts. There are three common species of root-knot nematodes known to parasitize watermelon in the U.S.: the southern root-knot, M. incognita, the peanut root-knot, M. arenaria, and the Javanese root-knot, M. javanica. The southern root-knot nematode is ranked first in terms of negative impact on watermelon production, particularly in warm temperate climates. Many watermelon fields in Georgia are infested with one or more species of root-knot nematodes.
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