Modelling movements of root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne spp. juveniles when encumbered with spores of Pasteuria penetrans

Abstract. A system for monitoring movement of the free-living second stage juveniles of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) using digital image analysis is described. The method is based on the analysis of video sequences of movement of individual random nematodes encumbered with or without Pasteuria penetrans endospores. Software packages were used to grab video images, to process images and to monitor the movement of selected body part positions over time. Methods include the study of nematode locomotion based on (a) the geometric center (b) the centroid body point, (c) tracking of two or four selected body points and (c) tracking a rectangular shape area produced by the nematode’s body. Data showed that (a) the normal sinusoidal movement of nematodes is changed when individuals are encumbered with spores of P. penetrans and (b) in all cases a significant greater motility was observed by nematodes without P. penetrans spores attached