Evaluation of fungal bioagents for management of root-knot nematodes in ginger and turmeric fields

Abstract

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) are important herbaceous spices cultivated extensively in different states of India. Being vegetatively propagated, they are challenged with several pests and diseases including plant parasitic nematodes. Root-knot nematode problems in these cops is currently managed with nematicides, cover crops and organic amendments. Realizing the scope of biological control in these crops, a series of experiments were conducted at Indian Institute of Spices Research, Calicut, Kerala to screen and evaluate various fungal bioagents for control of root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) infesting ginger and turmeric under field conditions. Ten antagonistic fungi were evaluated in different field experiments conducted in root-knot infested ginger and turmeric fields at two locations. The most promising isolates that suppressed root knot nematodes were Aspergillus nidulans (Is.10), Fusarium oxysporum(Is.11), Paecilomyces lilacinus (Is.36), Trichoderma viride(Is.25), Verticillium lecanii(Is.35) and Pochonia chlamydosporia(Is.32). From these, three fungi viz. F. oxysporum, T. viride and P. chlamydosporia were further tested in ginger fields using two delivery systems, soil bed application and seed rhizome dipping generally applicable in dry shed treatment. The final results showed that P.chlamydosporia significantly suppressed root knot nematodes in ginger and gave the maximum yield irrespective of the mode of application.