Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore
The banana root system was found to support high nematode populations of Helicotylenchus multicinctus, Radopholus similis, Rotylenchulus reniformis and Hop-lolaimus sp. thus suggesting the importance of nematodes in contributing to the severe rotting of the roots and the subsequent effect on nutrient uptake.
The differential nutrient contents of the two varieties may be a varietal character. The nutrient content is impaired by nematodes infestation in the two varieties but the intensity of infestation depends upon the nature and population of the species and also the type of soil and plant. Nitrogen metabolism is affected and the chlorophyll synthesis is also retarded due to nematodes.
