Meloidogyne incognita which causes stunting of gladiolus plants and their yellowing is:

Correct option is A

· Root Knot Nematode: Meloidogyne incognita is a parasitic nematode responsible for causing root knot disease in plants.
· Impact on Gladiolus: It causes stunting, yellowing of leaves, and deformation of roots.
· Mechanism: The nematodes form galls or knots on the roots, disrupting nutrient and water uptake.
· Management: Crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, and nematicides are common control measures.
· Therefore, the correct answer is Root knot nematode.