Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Attacking Chickpea and Their In Planta Interactions with Rhizobia and Phytopathogenic Fungi

Abstract

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is a cool-season food legume second in importance as a pulse crop in the world after beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). It is an important protein source in many regions of the semi-arid tropics. Chickpea is grown in 47 countries and is a significant component of subsistence cropping systems for farmers in the Indian Subcontinent, West Asia, the Mediterranean Basin, and certain areas of East and North Africa. More than 90% of the chickpea crops are grown in eight countries, including India, Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Ethiopia, Mexico, Australia and Canada, in decreasing order.

Many species of plant-parasitic nematodes have been reported in the roots and rhizosphere of chickpea in the major growing regions in the world (Table 1). However, only certain nematode species are considered constraints to chickpea production, causing an estimated 14% in annual yield losses (61,68). The symptoms and signs of nematode parasitism on chickpea differ depending upon the nematode’s feeding habit. Moreover, nematode attacks can make plants more sensitive to other biotic and abiotic stresses, and overall result in stunting and poor yield.