Identify the Problem.
Deploy the Solution.
From nematode diagnosis and biological management to EU EFSA and US EPA regulatory strategy for plant protection products — NemaCura provides expert consultancy at every stage.
Request a ConsultationNematode problems are frequently misdiagnosed — symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing, and poor yield are often attributed to nutrient deficiency or fungal disease. Our consultancy service provides accurate nematode identification at species level, population density assessment, and a science-backed biological management strategy.
How Our Consultancy Works
A structured, science-led process from initial diagnosis through to a fully tailored biological management plan.
Initial Problem Assessment
We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your crop type, growing conditions, observed symptoms, and yield history. This helps us identify whether nematodes are the primary cause of your problem.
Soil & Root Sampling
We guide you through the correct soil and root sampling protocol for your specific crop and field conditions — ensuring samples are representative and suitable for accurate nematode extraction and analysis.
Nematode Taxonomy & Identification
Using microscopy and morphological taxonomy, we identify the exact nematode species present — distinguishing between plant parasitic species (root-knot, lesion, cyst, Ditylenchus, Tylenchulus) and free-living beneficial nematodes.
Population Threshold Analysis
We assess nematode population densities against established damage thresholds for your specific crop, giving you a clear picture of whether intervention is economically justified.
Tailored Biological Management Plan
Based on the diagnosis, we develop a bespoke biological management strategy — recommending the most appropriate NemaCura products, application timing, and integration with your existing IPM programme.
Recognising Nematode Damage
Plant parasitic nematodes cause characteristic symptoms both above and below ground. Understanding what to look for is the first step toward accurate diagnosis.
Root Galls — Meloidogyne spp.
Characteristic swellings (galls) on roots caused by root-knot nematode feeding and egg mass deposition
- Visible root swellings and galling on fine roots
- Disrupted water and nutrient uptake
- Above-ground: stunting, yellowing, wilting
- Affects vegetables, fruit crops, cereals and ornamentals
Nematode Taxonomy — Species ID
Light microscopy and morphological keys used to identify nematodes to species level
- Morphological identification using stylet, tail and vulval features
- Distinguishes plant parasitic from free-living species
- Population counts per 100g soil or per gram root
- Compared against crop-specific damage thresholds
Above-Ground vs Below-Ground Symptoms
Above Ground
- Stunted, uneven crop growth
- Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins)
- Premature wilting despite adequate moisture
- Reduced tillering in cereals
- Poor fruit set and reduced yield
Below Ground
- Root galls and swellings (Meloidogyne)
- Root lesions and necrotic patches (Pratylenchus)
- Cysts attached to root surface (Heterodera, Globodera)
- Stubby, distorted root tips
- Reduced root mass and branching
Species-Level Identification Matters
Not all nematodes are harmful. Accurate taxonomy is the foundation of effective management — misidentification leads to unnecessary intervention or, worse, no intervention when populations are at damaging levels.
Our nematologists use morphological keys and microscopy to identify nematodes to species level, distinguishing between the major plant parasitic groups and the free-living beneficial species that indicate a healthy soil ecosystem.
Morphological taxonomy under light microscopy
Species-level identification of plant parasitic nematodes
What Sets Our Consultancy Apart
Nematology Expertise
Our team combines academic nematology with practical field agronomy — giving you advice grounded in both science and commercial reality.
Biological-First Approach
We do not recommend chemistry. Every management plan we produce is built around biological solutions that protect soil health and comply with EU Green Deal objectives.
End-to-End Support
From initial sampling through to product application and follow-up monitoring, we support you at every stage of the management programme.
Speak to a Nematologist
Tell us about your crop, your symptoms, and your growing system. We will advise on the right sampling approach and get your diagnosis underway.