Parasitic association of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on guava

Abstract

The root knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp. are considered to be one of the most important pest problems with a wide host range of crops throughout the tropics and subtropics. They reduce crop yield and quality of guava. Nematode infestation is one of the most important factors contributing to low productivity of crops. Recently rootknot nematode was observed to attack guava roots in orchards growing in and around Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh. Nematode attacked plant exhibited stunting, yellowing, dieback and patchy growth. However, root system showed numerous small to big size galls. The specific identity of the nematode was determined by cutting perineal pattern of the females. The present investigations have clearly indicated that the association of root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita with guava is highly pathogenic in nature. Parasitic association of Meloidogyne incognita may pose a serious threat to guava trees, if the management practices are not governed to keep the population under check. Therefore, it needs immediate attention of the growers and researcher to manage the damage to guava trees infested with nematodes