• Nematode cysts using sugarbeet as an example
    Nematodes

Small pest with great effect

The beet cyst nematode (Heterodera schachtii) has the greatest economic importance in most German and European sugarbeet cultivation areas.

Nematodes belong to the diverse biological class of thread worms. They are usually relatively small, white to colourless filiform worms. They are adapted worldwide to a wide range of habitats and rely on moisture.

  • Nematodes move in their habitat through meandering, which is why they are also referred to as eelworms
  • Approximately 3000 of the 20,000 known species of nematode feed on plants
  • About 100 species are significant pests on crops
  • Nematodes infest the root system of the host plant and severely affect plant metabolism