ABSTRACT
Nematodes, also called eel-worms, are wormlike in appearance, but quite distinct taxonomically from true worms. Plant parasitic nematodes are small, long, tubular, round in the cross section, unsegmented, and smooth invertebrates. Seed-borne nematodes may be internal or may occur as seed infestation. The available histopathological observations on seeds infected by endoparasitic nematodes are given under separate heads. The chapter discusses the interaction of seed nematodes and bacteria for which histopathological observations are available. Nematodes have a well-developed sensory and behavioral system that enables them to locate and attack specific parts of the plants. The nematodes may enter through the opening at the top or they may feed and enter after puncturing cells using their buccal stylet. Nematodes occur as endophytes in seed galls, and they are quiescent, having a very low metabolic activity. The histology of developing galls permits identification of galls developing from anther or ovary; therefore, a separate account is given for them.
