Which statement is TRUE about host-plant resistance to nematode infestation?

Which statement is TRUE about host-plant resistance to nematode infestation?

• A. Nematode-resistant plants are best used in a combination with other management techniques, such as crop rotation and farrowing.
• B. A plant that is resistant to nematode pest may be susceptible to one or more alternate pest that live and breed nearby.
• C. Nematode-resistant plants are a very cost-efficient way to manage pest nematode species in fields, orchards, or vineyards.
• D. Nematode-resistant plants always eliminate the need for additional management practices.

Answer: (B)

Host-plant resistance to nematodes is typically specific to particular nematode species, not a blanket shield against all pests. A plant can carry genes that block one nematode pest while still being a good host for others that live in the same soil or nearby. Because resistance is often species- or race-specific, reducing pressure from one nematode doesn’t guarantee protection from alternate pests in the same environment. That’s why this statement rings true: even a nematode-resistant plant may be susceptible to other pests that share the habitat. In practice, resistance is one tool within an integrated approach—paired with crop rotation, good soil health, sanitation, and monitoring—since relying on resistance alone isn’t sufficient or guaranteed. The other ideas imply resistance eliminates all problems or is always cost-efficient, which isn’t accurate because pest communities can shift and resistance is not universal.

Host-plant resistance to nematodes is typically specific to particular nematode species, not a blanket shield against all pests. A plant can carry genes that block one nematode pest while still being a good host for others that live in the same soil or nearby. Because resistance is often species- or race-specific, reducing pressure from one nematode doesn’t guarantee protection from alternate pests in the same environment. That’s why this statement rings true: even a nematode-resistant plant may be susceptible to other pests that share the habitat. In practice, resistance is one tool within an integrated approach—paired with crop rotation, good soil health, sanitation, and monitoring—since relying on resistance alone isn’t sufficient or guaranteed. The other ideas imply resistance eliminates all problems or is always cost-efficient, which isn’t accurate because pest communities can shift and resistance is not universal.