One-dimensional alpha-MnO2 and beta-MnO2 single-crystalline nanostructures were prepared by hydrothermal process. The products were characterized in detail by multiform techniques: X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Experimental results indicate that the temperature plays important roles in determining produce alpha-MnO2 and beta-MnO2 nanorods. In addition, the as-prepared alpha-MnO2 and beta-MnO2 nanorods showed excellent catalytic performance in the Fenton-like reaction. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.