Integrative taxonomy and mitogenome characterization of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne silvestris

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are among the most damaging plant-parasitic nematodes, yet taxonomic uncertainties often complicate diagnostics and management. This article examines Meloidogyne silvestris populations from the Netherlands using an integrative approach combining morphology, isoenzyme profiles, and molecular markers. It also presents a nearly complete mitochondrial genome of M. silvestris, which expands genomic resources for root-knot nematodes. These findings highlight the value of integrative datasets for robust species delimitation and provide a framework for future studies on population structure, evolutionary dynamics, and diagnostic marker development within the genus.