Cotton Disease Update: Reniform Nematode

Reniform nematode continues to be detected in cotton fields across Oklahoma. During the 2023 and 2024 growing seasons, a survey was conducted in 17 commercial cotton fields located in Tillman, Jackson, Grady, and Caddo counties to assess the presence of parasitic nematodes affecting cotton production. We collected soil samples in areas of the fields showing irregular and stunted cotton plants. Out of the 17 soil samples collected, reniform nematode was detected in 5 fields, marking the first confirmed report of this pest in Oklahoma cotton. Notably, in one of the positive fields, the reniform nematode population reached 1,569 nematodes per 100 cm³ of soil; more than double the economic threshold of 700 nematodes per 100 cm³. In 2025, a soil sample from a cotton field in Jackson County already tested positive for the reniform nematode.  

 

The reniform nematode, caused by Rotylenchulus reniformis, is one of the most important yield-limiting pathogens of cotton production in the southern U.S. In addition to cotton, the reniform nematode can reproduce on other field crops such as soybean, with yield loss estimates being greater in cotton than soybean. The reniform nematode is easy to introduce into new fields because of its unique ability to survive in a dehydrated state in dry soils. Therefore, it can be transported long distances on field equipment.

 

We suspect that parasitic nematodes, such as root-knot and reniform nematodes, are already present in many Oklahoma cotton fields, but the damage they cause often goes unnoticed. This is especially important for the reniform nematode, as yield losses can occur without obvious aboveground symptoms. For this reason, monitoring the distribution of this nematode across the cotton fields in Oklahoma is crucial to raise awareness of this emerging issue and to guide future management decisions.

 

 

Symptoms and Signs

The expression of symptoms depends on several factors, including the susceptibility of the cotton hybrid, nematode population levels, soil type, and for how long that field has been infested. Affected plants may show reduced growth, delayed flowering, fewer fruits, and smaller fruit size, which together contribute to yield losses in lint or pods. Unlike the southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita), the reniform nematode does not induce gall formation on roots, making field diagnosis based solely on visible symptoms challenging. For this reason, soil testing through a nematode assay is often necessary for proper identification. In newly infested fields, stunted plants are typically the most noticeable sign (Figure 1).

 

Figure 1. Stunted cotton plants due to a high population density of the reniform nematode. Photo credit: Travis Faske, University of Arkansas

 

 

Plan of Action

To address this issue, a statewide nematode survey is underway to document the presence, abundance, and geographic distribution of parasitic nematodes in Oklahoma cotton fields. The information generated from this survey will provide a foundation for developing and implementing economically viable strategies to manage this issue and protect cotton production in the state.

 

 

How to participate?

Oklahoma cotton growers interested in having their fields tested for parasitic nematodes have several ways to participate in this study:

1. Schedule a field visit: Contact Dr. Maira Duffeck to arrange soil sample collection. She can be reached by phone at (347) 205-2180 or by email at mairodr@okstate.edu.
2. Drop off samples at the Peanut & Cotton Field Day: September 18, 2025, from 5–8 p.m. at the Caddo Research Station (28054 County Street 2540, Ft. Cobb)
3. Drop off samples at the Cotton Field Day: September 25, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Southwest Research & Extension Center (16721 US Hwy 283, Altus)

 

More information about dropping off samples on OSU field days can be found on the flyers shown in Figures 2 and 3. Growers can submit soil samples for analysis at no cost, as expenses are covered through a project funded by the Oklahoma Cotton Council in partnership with Cotton Incorporated.

 

Figure 2: Information for growers to bring soil samples for nematode analysis at the OSU Peanut and Cotton Field Day on September 18th, 2025.

 

 

Figure 3: Information for growers to bring soil samples for nematode analysis at the OSU Cotton Field Day on September 25^th, 2025.

 

 

How to collect soil samples for analysis?

• Soil samples should be collected from the root zone of the plants
• Collect 15–20 soil cores (6–8 inches deep) from across the field
• Growers should focus on areas of the field where plants are showing poor growth and development
• Mix the cores thoroughly, then place the mixed soil into a resealable plastic bag
• We need about 2 pints (1 kg) of soil for analysis
• Keep samples cool — store them in a refrigerator until the field day.
• If you collect soil samples from different fields, please label and add field information to the plastic bag accordingly