Nematodes as Biological Indicators: Managing Soil Health: A Review

Indian soils are prone to nematode growth, affecting stability. Biocontrol fungi like Trichoderma harzianum stimulate frugivorous nematode population growth, while predators like mononchid and diplogasterid play crucial roles in soil food web dynamics. Larger, higher trophic-level creatures react more strongly to environmental changes, while microscopic soil-borne nematodes are unclear if they are similarly sensitive to size or trophic level. The Andrassy equation’s maximum body width was underestimated due to the A/L ratio. Nematodes, including Scottnema lindsayae, Plectus murrayi, Eudorylaimus antarcticus, and Monhystera villosa, impact domesticated plants in Antarctic regions. They require ideal temperatures for development. Docking disorder in the English sugar beet region caused root damage to seedlings by Trichodorus and Longidorus species, affecting root shape. Soil health indicators support ecosystem functions like carbon accumulation, water movement, and microbial community activity. Improved soil physical qualities positively impact N and organic carbon contents. Soil pH, a key indicator of soil health, influences plant growth and survival rates. High concentrations of Pratylenchus alleni and Hoplolaimus galeatus colonise soybean roots. Research shows that nematode population densities, EC, and soil texture are linked. Soil biological condition is assessed using electrical conductivity for crop management. 37-59% of soil nematodes are herbivorous and sensitive to plant output. Nitrogen addition affects trophic groups, with fungivores negatively affected. Plant susceptibility to nematodes depends on attraction, repellence, and diet composition.