EFFECTS OF FIELD APPLICATION OF VARIOUS MICRO-ORGANISMS ON MELOIDOGYNE INCOGNITA ON TOMATO

Abstract

Biocontrol potential of Bacillus subtilis, B. thuringiensis, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Paecilomyces lilacinus (soil and root-dip treatments) against Meloidogyne incognita on tomato was examined in field plots. Soil application of B. subtilis or P. stutzeri improved the plant growth, leaf pigments and yield of tomato in plots not inoculated with M. incognita. In inoculated plots yield was significantly greater in all plots with the bioagents applied in the soil, being greatest with B. subtilis. Significant yield enhancement due to root-dip treatments was recorded with B. subtilis and P. stutzeri. All treatments, except P. stutzeri, decreased root galling and inhibited reproduction of M. incognita, being greatest with B. subtilis. P. stutzeri, however, increased nematode galling and egg mass production. Soil application of the bio-agents was more effective than the root-dip treatment.