Root-knot nematodes (RKN) are globally distributed and highly pathogenic. By determining the threshold at which damage occurs, we can create effective measures to protect plants from nematodes. In our study, we investigated the impact of ten initial population densities (Pi-log series) of M. javanica, i.e., 0, 2.38, 2.68, 2.98, 3.28, 3.58, 3.88, 4.18, 4.48 and 4.78 juveniles (J2) g(-1) soil on tomato cv. S22 plants in pots. The graphical estimation of yield losses caused by RKN was calculated using Seinhorst's yield loss model based on the relationship between the RKN population and damage to tomato plants. The relationship between initial nematode population density (Pi) and plant yield was analyzed using Seinhorst's model, where T is the tolerance limit, m is the minimum yield, and z is a constant describing yield decline. This allowed us to determine the threshold at which nematode infestation significantly reduces tomato growth. Seinhorst's model, y = m + (1-m) 0.95(Pi/T-1) for Pi > T; y = 1 for Pi <= T for RKN, was fitted to the data of shoot length and fresh weight of infected and uninoculated control plants to estimate the damage threshold level. The impact of M. javanica on plant physiological parameters, including chlorophyll content, carotenoid and nitrate reductase activity, root-gall formation, and disease incidence, was also determined in this study. The tolerance limits for relative tomato shoot length and fresh weight were 3.34 J2 of M. javanica g(-1) soil. The minimum relative values (y(m)) for shoot length and fresh weights were 0.39 and 0.42, respectively. We found that the damage threshold level was between 3.28 and 3.58. The root galls index, nematode population and reproduction factors were 3.75, 113 and 29.42, respectively, at an initial population density (Pi) of 3.58 J2 g(-1) soil. The chlorophyll (0.43 mg g(-1)), carotenoids (0.06 mg g(-1)) and nitrate reductase activity (0.21 mu mol min(-1) g(-1)). Our study highlights the importance of the accurate estimation of damage thresholds, which can guide timely and effective nematode management strategies.

Root-lesion nematodes, particularly Pratylenchus neglectus and P. crenatus (PNC), are widely distributed in New Zealand and cause significant damage to maize roots, reducing crop productivity. Despite their economic importance, no comprehensive assessment of commercial maize hybrids' resistance to PNC has been conducted in the country. Significant variation was observed in the nematode reproduction factor (Rf) and final population (Pf) among hybrids. In Experiment 1 (initial population (Pi) = 1250 PNC kg(-)(1) soil), Rf ranged from 3.1 in hybrid P8500 to 7.1 in hybrid P9127, with Pf values ranging from 3863 to 8903 PNC kg(-)(1) soil + roots in 45 days. In Experiment 2 (Pi = 750 PNC kg(-)(1) soil), Rf ranged from 18.4 in hybrid P1613 to 37.5 in hybrid P8805, with Pf values from 13,784 to 28,426 PNC kg(-)(1) soil + roots in 60 days. These results indicate active nematode reproduction and substantial hybrid-dependent variation in host response. Experiment 3 examined the impact of varying initial inoculum densities (500, 1000 and 1500 PNC kg(-)(1) soil), showing a dose-dependent increase in Pf and corresponding root damage. Susceptible hybrid (P9127) exhibited up to 42% root dry weight and 22% shoot dry weight reductions. This study is the first systematic evaluation of PNC resistance in New Zealand maize hybrids. It identifies P9127 and P8805 as highly susceptible, and P0891, P8500, and P1613 as moderately resistant. These findings offer valuable benchmarks for future breeding and support nematode management in New Zealand.