Nematodes are non-segmented invertebrate animals, which are one of the major phytosanitary problems worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, attacking the root system of plants they removing photo-assimilates and reducing the absorption capacity of water and nutrients of plant. In order to avoid economic losses by reducing productivity and quality, synthetic compounds have been developed to control nematodes. The use of these synthetic compounds, known as chemical control, has high economic importance, being the current tool most used by farmers for control of these individuals. Moreover, only in Brazil, the trade of these products reaches hundreds of millions of dollars per year. This review aims to address the fundamental aspects of nematode biology and the chemical control of the major genus (Meloidogyne, Heterodera, and Globodera). It covers the historical evolution of the chemical control agents since its beginning in the nineteenth century until today, their mode of action (fumigants and nonfumigants), mechanisms of action (inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, opening of the chloride channel, inhibition of electron transport in the electron transport chain, enzymatic inactivation, as a Dauer phase-inducing agent or agent that ensures the organism remains irreversibly in the Dauer phase), the products available for each crop, including their commercial names and forms of application.
