Exploitation of Nematicidal Potential of Paecilomyces lilacinus against Root Knot Nematode on Eggplant

ABSTRACT

Root knot nematodes cause severe losses in vegetables throughout the world because its management is difficult due to its wide host range. The nematicidal potential of Paecilomyces lilacinus (Thom.) Samson was evaluated against root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood, on eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) under greenhouse conditions. Inoculation with M. incognita and P. lilacinus was carried out individually, in combination, and sequentially. Inoculation of 1000 juveniles (J₂) of M. incognita reduced plant growth. The sequential application of P. lilacinus 7 days prior to M. incognita was more effectual than sequential application of M. incognita 7 days prior to P. lilacinus. Our findings concluded that P. lilacinus has the aptitude to adjust the nematode population and may serve as an alternative to nematicide.

KEYWORDS:

• Solanum melongena
• Meloidogyne incognita
• Alternative
• Concomitant
• Pakistan
• Sequential