Southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is a nematode pest. It was first detected in Maryland in 1985.
Whiplike larva of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita penetrates root. When M. incognita attacks the roots of plants, it sets up a feeding location where it deforms the normal root cells and establishes giant cells. The roots become gnarled or nodulated, forming galls, hence the term "root-knot" nematode. .