Isolation, identification and confirmation of Foliar nematode, Aphelenchoides besseyi association with Dendrobium Orchid under Polyhouse condition

Dendrobium orchid, Dendrobium nobile, is one of the most widespread ornamentals. Besides durability and high keeping quality, its fragrant, waxy and variable coloured flowers are having a high market demand. Dendrobium orchid was found to be one of the favourable hosts for foliar nematode, Aphelenchoides besseyi. The cross inoculation study confirmed the association of Foliar nematode, A. besseyi in Dendrobium. The nematode was found to remain active on plants round the year under polyhouse condition with high temperature and relative humidity affecting the quantity and quality of flower appreciably.