RAPD analysis distinguishes four races of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita

Eight populations of Meloidogyne incognita, from different locations, were collected and categorized into four different races on the basis of International host differentials. Total genomic DNA was isolated from the juveniles of the four races. By applying a set of 34,10-mer primers, RAPD-PCR analysis was performed on total genomic DNA to access the extent of genetic variation and establish the genetic relationships among the races. Based on RAPD profiling, the four races of M. incognita could be distinguished from each other. Cluster analysis, using UPGMA, demonstrated that race-1 was considerably different from other races and race-2 was closer to race-3 than to race-4. However, more extensive analysis including large number of populations representing different races may prove to be useful for identifying race specific diagnostic markers.