Pacific Pests, Pathogens & Weeds - Mini Fact Sheet Edition

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Banana burrowing nematode (257)

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Photo 1. "Toppling" is a common symptom on banana when roots are attacked by Radopholus. Note this banana has fallen over before the fruits have matured; a sign of nematode attack. A similar symptom occurs when bananas are infected by the nematode Pratylenchus coffeae.

Photo 1. Progressive development of root rot symptoms (from left to right) by the burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, in banana roots.

Photo 2. Burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, showing the spear in the mouth (arrowed).

Diagram. Life cycle of the burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, on banana.

Summary

• Worldwide. In tropics and sub-tropics. Root decay (red and black patches when split); weak bunches; and “toppling”. Many crops and weeds. A important pest.
• Eggs are laid in roots or in soil nearby; larvae and adults tunnel through roots using a hollow spear to suck cell contents, and kill the roots. 
• Spread is in ground water, and infested suckers.
• Cultural control: use non-host break crop (e.g., cassava, sweetpotato or a ground legume); before planting suckers: (i) remove soil and roots, inspect, cut out corm rots with knife wiped with bleach; (ii) treat with hot water - 53°C for 20 min.
• Chemical control: not recommended.

Common Name

Banana burrowing nematode, black head disease of banana

Scientific Name

Radopholus similis

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