Root-knot nematode pathogen suppression in eggplant using antagonistic fungi

Abstract Background Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood is a major pest of eggplant in Pakistan. The second-stage juveniles (J2s) feed on the roots eggplant. Damaged swell plant exhibits stunted growth. Mostly farmers rely use broad-spectrum nematicides. However, due to hazardous effects environment non-target species, its application greatly criticized. Fungal biocontrol agents have been long used for curtailing root-knot nematode infections. present study was conducted determine virulence four fungal against M. under laboratory greenhouse conditions. Results vitro results revealed that Trichoderma harzianum significantly caused 77.60% egg inhibition, followed by Pochonia chlamydosporium (53.0% ) at 1:1 concentration after 72 h. maximum J2s mortality achieved T. (82.0%), P. (70.20%) in-planta examination carried out demonstrated soil drench treatment suppressed parameters upraised mean least number galls (22.25) treated plants, while control had (206.8) galls. Likewise, curtailed masses 35.75 swollen females 21.12 than negative (224.13 182.75 females). Conclusion best agent effectively, chlamydosporum . may be contribution biological