The root knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp. are considered to be one of the most
important pest problems with a wide host range of crops throughout the tropics and
subtropics. They reduce crop yield and quality of guava. Nematode infestation is one
of the most important factors contributing to low productivity of crops. Recently rootknot
nematode was observed to attack guava roots in orchards growing in and around
Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh. Nematode attacked plant exhibited stunting,
yellowing, dieback and patchy growth. However, root system showed numerous small
to big size galls. The specific identity of the nematode was determined by cutting
perineal pattern of the females. The present investigations have clearly indicated that
the association of root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita with guava is highly
pathogenic in nature. Parasitic association of Meloidogyne incognita may pose a
serious threat to guava trees, if the management practices are not governed to keep the
population under check. Therefore, it needs immediate attention of the growers and
researcher to manage the damage to guava trees infested with nematodes.