Meloidogyne graminicola—A Threat to Rice Production: Review Update on Distribution, Biology, Identification, and Management

SIMPLE SUMMARY: New risks to plant health are constantly emerging. Such is the case of the rice root knot nematode Meloidogyne graminicola, adapted to flooded conditions and representing a risk to all types of rice agro-systems. It has been recently detected in Italy and added to the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) Alert List. The presence of this nematode in Europe poses a threat to rice production, as there is a high probability to spread, due to trade activities and climate changes. In view of its importance, an extensive updated review was carried out. ABSTRACT: Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the main cultivated crops worldwide and represents a staple food for more than half of the world population. Root-knot nematodes (RKNs), Meloidogyne spp., and particularly M. graminicola, are serious pests of rice, being, probably, the most economically important plant-parasitic nematode in this crop. M. graminicola is an obligate sedentary endoparasite adapted to flooded conditions. Until recently, M. graminicola was present mainly in irrigated rice fields in Asia, parts of the Americas, and South Africa. However, in July 2016, it was found in northern Italy in the Piedmont region and in May 2018 in the Lombardy region in the province of Pavia. Following the first detection in the EPPO region, this pest was included in the EPPO Alert List as its wide host range and ability to survive during long periods in environments with low oxygen content, represent a threat for rice production in the European Union. Considering the impact of this nematode on agriculture, a literature review focusing on M. graminicola distribution, biology, identification, and management was conducted.