What are plant-parasitic nematodes?
Plant-parasitic nematodes are microscopic roundworms that cause a variety of plant diseases, usually by invading the plant roots. Their effects include: increased heat and droubt stress, reduced crop yields, and even plant death. Crop damage due to plant-parasitic nematodes is estimated to be $100 billion worldwide. Nematodes are difficult to control with common pesticides and most products currently marketed for nematode control have significant safety and effectiveness problems.