The response is complicated and thought to allow the nematodes to move toward an appropriate level in soil,[2] while they search for chemical cues that can guide them to specific roots.

Perineal pattern is oval to rounded, typically with high dorsal arch, striae usually wavy, and lateral field absent or weakly demarcated.

Once inside the roots, J2 migrate through cortical tissues towards the vascular zone where they establish a permanent feeding site called giant cell.

Upon maturity females lay eggs into a gelatinous mass that protect them against unfavorable environmental conditions, and the life cycle is repeated.

[7][10][11] Management of M. incognita depends primarily on the crop being affected and relies on multiple strategies such as cultural, biological and chemical control.

Among the cultural control crop rotation with nonhost or resistant varieties can be used to keep the nematode population at tolerable levels.

Also, usage of organic amendments and antagonistic crops such as Crotalaria spectabilis (Leguminosae) and several Tagetes species (Asteraceae) is effective against this nematode.