Occurrence and Distribution of Major Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) Orchards in Jaipur and Dausa Districts of Rajasthan

Abstract

A survey was conducted in 26 localities of Jaipur and Dausa districts of Rajasthan during November 2024 to April 2025 to assess the occurrence, distribution and population status of major plant parasitic nematodes associated with citrus orchards. The main objective of this was to identify the plant parasitic nematodes associated with acid lime orchards. Among the surveyed 283 soil and root samples, root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp., was the most predominant species, present in 219 samples, scoring 77.39% absolute frequency, 31.31% absolute density and 2.75 prominence value. The highest incidence (100% infection) of rootknot nematode was recorded in the Durgapura locality of Jaipur district. Other plant parasitic nematodes such as Tylenchulus spp., Helicotylenchus spp., Pratylenchus spp. and Hoplolaimus spp. were also observed in relatively lower numbers across the surveyed localities. The widespread distribution of Meloidogyne spp., across the acid lime areas indicates high susceptiblity of this important fruit crop to the nematode, emphasizing the need for effective nematode management strategies for sustainable citrus production in Rajasthan.