DNA Barcoding of Plant Parasitic Nematodes

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) are among the most devastating crop pests, presenting a crippling effect in terms of crop and financial losses to the agricultural sector worldwide. They should be properly identified so that their control and management may be effective. Traditional morphological identification procedures are often time-consuming and tedious. DNA barcoding, a molecular species identification technique based on a concise, standardized sequence of a gene, has been established as an effective tool for nematode taxonomy and diagnostics. This review offers an in-depth discussion of DNA barcoding in PPNs, including its principles, procedures, applications, and associated issues, as well as potential opportunities. We cover and discuss the aspects of the most commonly used barcode areas, their usefulness, and how DNA barcoding has advanced knowledge of nematode diversity, phylogeny, and ecology. Along the way, we also highlight the combination of DNA barcoding with new technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics applications, which are revolutionizing the study and diagnosis of nematodes. This chapter is an excellent resource for researchers involved in the field of nematode diagnostics using molecular tools.