Molecular characterization of Heterodera cruciferae Franklin, 1945 from cabbage fields in Nigde province, Turkey

Background The aim of this study was to identified cyst nematodes in the cabbage production areas in Nigde Province by molecular methods to underpin decision making for field control. The sequences of ribosomal DNA region (rDNA-ITS) and cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (mtDNA-COI) were used for the first time for identification Heterodera cruciferae (cabbage cyst nematode) in Turkey. Methods and Results Heterodera cruciferae populations extracted from cabbage growing areas of Nigde Province and investigated using sequences of rDNA-ITS and mtDNA-COI. Similarities and differences between 13 geographic populations of H. cruciferae were detected in surveys during 2020-2021. DNA from single cysts was successfully amplified, and genetic variability was revealed within nematode populations. Based on these results, H. cruciferae is reported for the first time from Nigde Province, Turkey. This study showed clear discrimination among the sampled populations of H. cruciferae. Conclusion This finding is important for control and managing cabbage cyst nematode in cabbage fields in Turkey as more than one Heterodera spp. can occur. Future studies should investigate the population dynamics and control of H. cruciferae in fields in the sampled districts.