Non-conventional Management of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes in Musaceas Crops

The citrus nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans, the causal agent of the
‘citrus slow decline’, is the most destructing nematode pest of citrus, worldwide.
This chapter covers non-chemical practices which could substantially help in preventing and controlling such pest. Exclusion can be a helpful frst step for its management. This approach employs preventive techniques such as cultivation in virgin
or non-infested soils, using nematode-free plant material, irrigation with noninfested water, implementing quarantine and certifcation programs. Additional protective practices include eradication of infected plants, crop husbandry, sanitation,
soil disinfection and solarization, incorporation of organic soil amendments, and
crop rotation. Although botanical extracts and other biocontrol agents have been
shown eco-friendly management tactics, their effectiveness has been supported only
under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. The use of resistant hosts may be the
most useful tactic. However, the value of resistant rootstocks is diminished by the
occurrence of resistance-breaking nematode biotypes, soil properties unsuitable to
those biotypes, non-compatible rootstocks and scions, and unfavorable horticultural
features.