Diversity, distribution, and biological control strategies of plant parasitic nematodes: insights from Morocco within a global context—a comprehensive review and future research perspectives

Background

The privileged geographical position of Morocco as a Mediterranean country confers upon it a pivotal role in both regional and global food security. Leveraging its diverse geography and varying climate, the country contributes significantly to the worldwide supply chain by cultivating a wide array of crops. However, the extensive use of chemicals in the production process, particularly for pest management, has led to substantial degradation of environmental resources. Plant parasitic nematodes (PPNs) pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity, causing considerable crop yield losses. With growing concerns about the environmental and human health impacts of nematicides, restrictions on their usage have prompted the exploration of alternative control strategies for effective safe PPNs management.

Main body

The present review provides a comprehensive overview of research on plant parasitic nematodes (PPNs) in Morocco. It covers PPN taxa inventory, diversity, prevalence on different crops, and responses to environmental factors. The review also maps the distribution of the most dangerous genera, analyzes biological control methods for root knot nematodes Meloidogyne particularly, and identifies gaps and future research needs for sustainable PPN management. A total of 61 genera of PPNs were identified in Morocco, with Meloidogyne spp. being the most prevalent and dangerous genus, posing a serious threat to crop production in the country. The extensive distribution of PPNs, notably root knot, may be attributed to factors such as contaminated plant material and a lack of farmer awareness. Biological agents from Morocco’s ecosystems, including plant extracts, nematophagous fungi, and entomopathogenic nematodes, showed great potential as control agents for root knot nematodes. This review significantly contributes to Mediterranean and global nematological knowledge by providing insights into the diversity and sustainable management of plant parasitic nematodes.

Conclusion

The biological richness of Moroccan ecosystems can provide valuable resources for researchers in developing commercial effective bionematicides for plant pests.