Meloidogyne hapla has been referred to as the Northern
Root-Knot Nematode because it commonly occurs in cooler environments. It
is also found in the tropics and subtropics at higher elevations. M.
hapla has a wide host range which does not include graminaceous species,
and the galls that are induced by the nematode are usually smaller than
those produced by M. arenaria, M.incognita, and M. javanica,
and often have fine roots growing out of them.
Classification M. hapla is one of the most cytologically and reproductively
diverse Meloidogyne species. Ploidy levels vary and reproduction may be
by mitotic parthenogenesis, facultative meiotic parthenogenesis, or cross-fertilization.
The systematic relationships with other species are obscure.
Morphological Identification Perineal patterns
of females are often diagnostic of the species by the generally rounded
pattern with distinct punctations near the tail. The male head cap is rounded,
but does not extend as far posteriorly as the other common species. The
juvenile length ranges from 350-470um, and the stylet is fine with small,
rounded knobs.
