Research on the identification of root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) species in important kiwifruit production areas of Türkiye and the pathogenicity of some species on kiwifruit

Detection of root-knot nematodes is crucial for preserving the yield and the quality of kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.), a significant perennial cultivated plant in the world. Objectives of this study were to identify root-knot nematode species (Meloidoyne spp.) occuring in the provinces with intense kiwifruit production, determine their population densities in the soil, and assess the pathogenicity of some populations of the species against selected kiwifruit cultivar. In order to achieve this, root and soil samples were collected from the kiwifruit orchards in Bursa, Giresun, Ordu, Sakarya, Samsun, Rize, Trabzon, and Yalova provinces. Identification of the species was conducted by biochemical (esterase), molecular and morphological/morphometric analyses of pure cultures. Nematode density in soil samples was assessed by counting the second-stage juveniles using the Modified Bearmann tray method. The results of the diagnoses revealed the presence of Meloidogyne arenaria, M. ethiopica, M. incognita, M. hapla, and M. luci species within kiwifruit production areas. In addition, pathogenicities of M. ethiopica, M. incognita, M. hapla and M. luci species were tested on kiwifuit cultivar Hayward in greenhouse. The highest population level counted was recorded in Bursa province as 901 IJ2/100 cm3 soil. Pathogenicity assessments indicated that the Hayward cultivar was sensitive to all the population tested.