Abstract
Cropping systems affect the distribution/diversity of soil microorganisms, including soilborne pathogens. In order to examine the effect of the cropping systems on soil nematodes, maize (Zea mays) was intercropped with different cover crops [Glycine max (GM), Macrotyloma uniflorum (MU), Centrosema pascuorum (CP), Cucurbita maxima (CM) and a control experiment with no cover crop (NC)] under different tillage systems [no till, reduced tillage and conventional tillage] to evaluate the effect of the various treatments on nematode population. The treatments were arranged in a split-plot design with three replications each. Tillage was the main treatment while cover crops were applied to subtreatment. In all, nematodes belonging to twenty-two (22) plant parasitic nematode genera were identified. While most of the genera were identified on all the treatments, the interaction of tillage systems and cover crops had significant effect on the population of Xiphinema and Trichodorus only, showing the nullifying effect of some tillage practices on the other nematodes which were significant under crops as only treatments inter alia. This information could be used in nematode management when integrated management systems are being considered for such intercrop mixtures.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
