The global distribution of nematodes and their interaction with their surroundings requires further study to address their economic, environmental, health, and social merits and avoid their harmful effects. Due to their diversity, nematodes may be classified into several groups and subgroups such as free-living, predatory, entomopathogenic, slug- and plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs). Each type is affected by its environment. Excessive use of chemical pesticides for enhancing crop yield eliminates the beneficial types of microorganisms from the soil.

Chemical pesticides often act quickly but due to concerns about public health and environmental safety, alternative measures are being studied. One breakthrough is biological control, which is a novel and eco-friendly approach and quickly turning into a favored choice for managing pests. Biological control guarantees that the environment is not negatively affected in the production process. However, these methods might vary in potency and are slower to take effect in comparison to any other chemical method. Hence, when deciding how to handle pest management in the future, a better means is to go for an integrated management approach wherein the biological method is combined with other management methods. Integrated management of pests is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and widely accepted for sustainable agriculture.

This Research Topic aims to focus on recent research from a biological and environmental point of view. Current crop production requires enhancing such management tactics that are commercial, environmentally friendly, and promising in terms of high qualitative and quantitative crop yield. Analyzing the mixed strategies of nematode-host interactions require substantial research.

We welcome articles including original research and reviews comprising:

1. The molecular interaction between various nematode groups and their hosts
2. Role of bio-pesticides in integrated pest management of nematodes
3. Nematodes-based eco-friendly management methods of crop insect pests and slugs

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Frontiers in Plant Science

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