Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Phenotyping Banana for Resistance to the Root Burrowing Nematode (Radopholus similis)

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) such as Pratylenchus spp., Helicotylenchus spp., and Radopholus spp. amongst others are a major constraint to sustainable bananas (Musa spp.) production, (Stover and Simmonds 1987) and have been identified as a major factor contributing to declining production (Speijer et al., 1999) especially among small holder farmers. The root burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, has been reported as the most destructive nematode parasite of banana in the tropics (Gowen, 1993). To avert the yield reducing constraints due to nematode infestations, timely management and control of these bio-constraints is warranted. Nematodes can be controlled with chemicals, however, most of these chemicals have adverse effects to the environment and human health (Nyczepir and Thomas 2009). Furthermore, chemical nematicides are too expensive for the small holder farmers (Savangikar 2004). Besides other nematode control and management strategies, development of nematode resistant banana genotypes through breeding is a promising strategy for the management of nematode infection in banana (Speijer and De Waele, 1997). This standard operating procedure focuses on screening banana breeding genotypes for resistance to R. similis.