Management of Meloidogyne javanica on acid lime using Paecilomyces lilacinus and Pseudomonas fluorescens

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of formulations of Paecilomyces lilacinus (106 cfu/g) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (108 cfu/g), applied singly or in combination and with the addition of neem seed cakes, for the management of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica on acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia). Application of 10 g Paecilomyces lilacinus, 10 g Pseudomonas fluorescens and 250 g of neem seed cake per tree once in six months, for a period of two years, reduced the population of the nematode and increased the yield of the crop. Root colonization by both bio-agents increased with the increase in number of applications of their respective formulations, thus resulting in increased percentage of parasitized eggs and egg masses of M. javanica by P. lilacinus. The combination of the two bio-agents and that of these with neem seed cakes improved root colonization by both bio-agents and the control of the nematode. Combining P. lilacinus, P. fluorescens and neem seed cakes could form the basis for a sustainable management of root-knot nematodes on acid lime compatible with organic farming practices.