Nematode diversity and community structure associated with pomegranate and citrus from the district Jaipur (Rajasthan), India

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the diversity, distribution, and community structure of plant and soil nematodes associated with pomegranate and citrus crops in Jaipur district, Rajasthan. A systematic survey was conducted across different locations and the rhizospheric soil samples were collected from pomegranate and citrus orchards to assess the present status of nematode fauna and analyse nematode community composition. Methodology: Soil samples (n=59) were collected during a field survey from the pomegranate and citrus rhizosphere at different locations in the districts of Jaipur to determine the present status of soil and plant nematode fauna diversity and analyse nematode communities. Results: The survey recorded a total of 14 nematode genera, comprising seven plant-parasitic, four microbivorous, and three predatory genera. Among the plant-parasitic nematodes, Tylenchorhynchus mashhoodi (AF = 36.0%; RF = 32.14%) and Meloidogyne javanica (AF=16.0%; RF=14.28%) were identified as the most prevalent species across the surveyed orchards. Community analysis further revealed that microbivorous and plant-parasitic nematodes showed the greatest frequency (39%) and density 37%). The findings indicate a diverse nematode community structure in pomegranate and citrus ecosystems of Jaipur, with significant prevalence of economically important plant-parasitic species. Interpretation: The study highlights the need for sustainable management strategies to control M. javanica and T. mashhoodi in order to improve the crop health and productivity. These results provide a baseline information for understanding the nematode community dynamics and their potential impact on horticultural crops in the region. Key words: Community analysis, Hot semi-arid, Nematode diversity, Orchard