Rotylenchulus spp. Reniform nematode Damage. Biology.  Rotylenchulus  spp. are semiendoparasitic (partially inside roots) species in which the females penetrate the root cortex, establish a permanent-feeding site in the root and become immobile. A female will deposit 60 to 200 eggs into the soil, surrounded by a gelatinous matrix, seven to nine days after infecting the root. Ecology.  Rotylenchulus reniformis is widely distributed in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Symptoms.  Above ground symptoms on host plants include dwarfing, shedding of leaves, formation of malformed fruit and seeds, and general symptoms of an impaired root system. Below ground, roots are discolored and necrotic with areas of decay.  Plant mortality is possible in heavy infestations. Damage to other crops.  Among the crops most severely affected by reniform nematode are cotton, pineapple and many vegetable crops including tomato, okra, squash, and lettuce  Control.  Chemical control with non-fumigant nematicides.  Links and References.   Rotylenchulus reniformis. University of Hawaii.   Rotylenchulus reniformis. University of California   Featured creatures- Reniform nematode.  University of Florida.