The optimum temperature for embryogenesis in Meloidogyne javanica lies between 25 and 30 C. Embryogenesis is slightly more rapid at 30 C (9-10 days), but more eggs complete development at 25 C (11-13 days). At temperatures of 25, 27.5, and 30 C, embryogenesis is about twice as rapid as at 20 C (23-25 days), and about four times as rapid as at 15 C (46-48 days). Time-lapse studies showed that the thermal optimum is similar throughout the different stages of embryonic development.