<scp>IRAC</scp> : Nematicide Mode of Action Classification

Nematodes parasitize plant roots and cause substantial crop damage. Worldwide, annual yield losses caused by nematodes are estimated at over US$ 150 billion. Modern nematode control strategies require environmentally safe, cost-effective, and reliable products that meet the demands of both the grower and the consumer. Such products include novel fumigants, nonfumigants, and biological nematicides. In view of the increasing importance of nematode control and the associated resistance risks, Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) formed a working group on nematode resistance in 2018 and published the first nematicide mode of action (MoA) classification in 2019. This review provides an overview on tools currently available for nematode control including their nematicide MoA classification and describes in detail the discovery and biological profile of the leading chemical nematicides abamectin, fluensulfone, spirotetramat, and the most important bionematicides Votivo™ and Clariva™ – products derived from Bacillus firmus and Pateuria spp. An overview of the fumigants, carbamates, and organophosphates currently used as nematicides is also given.