This chapter focuses on some of the principal techniques for analysing nematode behaviour and physiology, such as attraction/repulsion plate assays, pluronic gel assays, movement assays, electrophysiology, stylet activity, water content changes, oxygen consumption assays, collection of female sex...

Nematodes can be present in various parts of plants or at various depths in the soil, depending on the circumstances and the life stage. This means that one should be aware of these possibilities when collecting samples. Also, samples should be taken from the proper matrix at the appropriate time,...

Nematodes can be present in different matrices. This chapter describes several methods to extract nematodes from soil and plant parts. It is crucial that an appropriate method is chosen for the purpose of the research as different types of nematodes, and even different nematode stages, are...

Estimating nematode numbers is required to quantify the presence of certain nematode taxa in plant tissue, field soil or any other substrates. This chapter describes the enumeration of nematodes within plant tissue (e.g. roots, stems, leaves, seeds) and in liquids. It also deals with estimating...

This chapter provides information on the methods for initial screening to determine the resistance or susceptibility of plants, cultivars or breeding lines to plant parasitic nematodes. Specific protocols for screening and further resistance breeding on several plant-nematode combinations are...

Numerous techniques for handling, fixing, staining and mounting nematodes have been published during the development of the science of nematology over the last 60 years. This chapter includes those techniques that have been shown to be widely adapted and least hazardous to the user and the...

A nematological culture is a method of multiplying nematodes by enabling them to reproduce and increase in a culture medium or a specific host under controlled conditions. This chapter presents culturing techniques, focused mainly on plant-parasitic nematodes and entomopathogenic nematodes, with...

This chapter focuses on the importance of accurate measurements for the description and identification of nematodes. Differences, albeit small yet consistent, can, if accurately recorded, be important for distinguishing taxa at the species level, although the usefulness and reliability of these...

This chapter provides information on the various procedures and techniques used for the preparation of plant parasitic and soil nematode samples for transmission and scanning electron microscopy studies regarding their ultrastructural information, morphogenesis, nematode-host interactions,...

In this chapter, the basic information for staining chromosomes of Meloidogyne spp. and free-living nematodes is presented, together with information on staining giant cells and syncytia.