What are the above-ground symptoms of nematode damage?

The symptoms of nematode damage above ground primarily manifest as yellowing of foliage, stunting, and a general decline of the plant's overall health. When nematodes infest a plant, they disrupt normal nutrient and water uptake, leading to yellowing leaves as the plant struggles to maintain healthy chlorophyll levels. Additionally, the stunting effect occurs because the nematodes damage the root system, which is crucial for nutrient absorption and anchoring the plant. Lastly, the general decline in health reflects the cumulative impact of these factors, making option B the most accurate description of the above-ground symptoms associated with nematode damage.

In contrast, other options describe symptoms that may relate to different issues; for example, leaf curling and browning could indicate pest damage or chemical injury, while rapid leaf drop and excessive flowering suggest environmental stress or hormonal imbalances rather than nematode infestation. Such distinctions are important for accurate diagnosis and effective management of plant health issues.