Population Behavior of Meloidogyne graminis in Field-grown 'Tifgreen' Bermudagrass

The vertical distribution and overwintering potential of Meloidogyne graminis on field-grown Cynodon sp (var. ''Tifgreen'' bermudagrass) was measured. Total populations of M. graminis were found to be lowest in March and highest in May. Larvae were most abundant in the top 5-cm of soil during periods favoring bermudagrass growth and least numerous during periods of host dormancy. Throughout the year, more t h a n 50% of the nematodes recovered each month were in roots within the top 5-cm of the soil profile. Both eggs and larvae of M. graminis overwinter in eastern Virginia.