Nematodes are microscopic worm-like organisms that can infect sugarcane plants and cause damage to the roots. There are two groups of nematodes associated with sugarcane: free-living nematodes and plant-parasitic nematodes. This information sheet focuses on plant-parasitic nematodes, which feed on sugarcane roots and can lead to yield reduction and a decrease in ratoon production. It provides an overview of the occurrence of nematodes in South African sugarcane fields and discusses the widespread genera found in soil and roots.