A recent county by county survey of the states that were considered likely to support the reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis, allowed Robinson and Heald to construct a map showing the distribution of the nematode in the continental United States. It is apparent from this map that the distribution of the reniform nematode coincides closely with the geographical area in which cotton is produced in the United States. This, together with the fact that the nematode is a known parasite of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) makes it reasonable to suggest that some of the estimated 1.5-2.9% loss of cotton due to nematodes can be attributed to the reniform nematode. Because the biology of the reniform nematode is significantly different from other cotton parasitic nematodes, and because its etiology of infection is unique, it is unlikely that what applies to the root-knot nematode applies equally to the reniform nematode. We suggest that an attempt be made to separately estimate cotton losses due to the root-knot and reniform nematodes. Such reporting should be helpful to those charged with prioritizing research to make rational decisions regarding the allocation of resources.