Detection and characterization of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) associated with three host plants in Romania

An investigation was undertaken to ascertain the presence of root-knot nematodes belonging to Meloidogyne species in Romanian crops, other than vegetables, to which they are very dangerous. Based on morphobiometrics and molecular characterization, three species of Meloidogyne were identified, i.e. M. incognita on cactus (Mammillaria backebergiana), M. arenaria on grapes (Vitis vinifera) and M. hapla on blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). PCR amplification and sequencing of the ITS containing region, the mitochondrial intergenic region between the cyochrome oxidase II and the 16S rRNA genes and the SCAR species-specific markers were used to identify Meloidogyne species from Romanian samples. Both SCAR sequences and PCR-RFLP analyses were able to quickly distinguish the four different Meloidogyne species in Romania. Meloidogyne arenaria has been reported for the first time on grapewine in Romania.