Alliances and competitions between nematodes and other micro-organisms occurring in the soil biosphere: a review

Abstract

The soil biotic community is characterized by many interactions and mechanisms that drive essential soil functions and prevent the outbreak of pests and pathogens. However, the impacts of global environmental changes and intensive agricultural practices on the microorganism diversity remain a critical gap. The decline in microbial diversity could severely affect nematode diversity and their population densities, compromise soil health, and consequently crop productivity. However, an updated, coomprensive and recent review is not available. Therefore, I provide a comprehensive review to highlight the importance of soil biosphere interactions, discuss the main neutral, negative and beneficial interactions between nematodes and other organisms as bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses. Also, the review suggests future researches and sustainable strategies in crop protection. Maintaining soil health and safeguard soil biodiversity is fundamental to limit nematode densities and for sustaining agricultural productivity.