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Abstract
Southern root-knot nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood] is a major parasite on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). In this study, greenhouse experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of M. incognita on cotton growth and physiological variables related to fiber development. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of different nematode management strategies on cotton growth, yield, and fiber quality. In greenhouse trials, most plant growth and physiological variables showed significant reduction with M. incognita infection. In field trials, Telone II significantly reduced M. incognita populations and increased cotton growth compared with Temik 15G and seed treatments. Cotton lint yield was improved by Telone II in most field trials except in two out of four fields in 2009. Most fiber quality properties were not consistently or significantly affected by different nematicide treatments across fields and years. Nematicides performed similarly in different nematode management zones.