Identification of plant-parasitic nematodes associated with carrot in fields of Lorestan and Khuzestan provinces, Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran

10.22034/ijon.2026.2021911.1038

Abstract

Plant parasitic nematodes are among the most important limiting factors in carrot production worldwide, causing both quantitative yield losses and significant reduction in root quality and marketability. Given the high importance of root shape and quality in the food industry, nematode damage can render carrot produce unmarketable. This study aimed to investigate nematodes that may damage carrot fields in Lorestan and Khuzestan provinces, Iran. Soil and root samples were collected during the 2018-2019 growing season, close to harvest time, in early autumn (Lorestan) and early winter (Khuzestan). A total of 22 fields exhibiting symptoms such as root galling, deformation, stunted growth, plant thinning, and patchy stands were surveyed. Samples were taken from the rhizosphere of affected plants. Nematode identification was performed based on morphological and morphometrics characteristics. In addition, species blonging to the genus Meloidogyne were identified using scar-specific primers. The results revealed that Merlinius brevidens and Merlinius microdorus were present in 72% of the fields. Meloidogyne javanica, Longidorus proximus, and Ditylenchus myceliophagus were detected in 45% of fields, Pratylenchus thornei in 36% and Helicotylenchus vulgaris in 13% of the fields. Juveniles of Heterodera were also observed in a sigle field. Except for D. myceliophagus, all identified species have the potential to cause damage in carrot fields. The findings highlight the necessity of pre-planting soil assessment for the prescence and population density of plant-parasitic nematodes to support effective management strategies and minimize crop losses.

Keywords

Iranian Journal of Nematology
Volume 1, Issue 2
September 2025
Pages 313-327

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