Phomopsis fruit rot (Phomopsis Blight) caused by Phomopsis vexans is one of the major diseases of eggplant. The fungus affects all above-ground parts at all stages of plant development. Disease is promoted by wet weather and high temperatures. Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) damage on eggplant roots. Symptoms of nematode injury can involve both above- and below-ground plant parts. Note the stunted, unthrifted, galled roots that eventually result in plant decline.