Abstract
The artificial introduction in the soil of antagonistic microorganisms can be a successful strategy, alternative to agrochemicals, for the control of the root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) and for preserving plant health. On the other hand, plant roots and the associated rhizosphere constitute a complex system in which the contribution of microbial community is fundamental to plant health and development, since microbes may convert organic and inorganic substances into available plant nutrients. In the present study, the potential nematicidal activity of the biopesticide Aphanocladium album (A. album strain MX-95) against the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica in infected tomato plants was investigated. Specifically, the effect of the A. album treatment on plant fitness was evaluated observing the plant morphological traits and also considering the nematode propagation parameters, the A. album MX-95 vitality and population density. In addition, the treatment effects on the rhizosphere microbiome were analysed by a metabarcoding procedure. Treatments with A. album isolate MX-95 significantly decreased root gall severity index and soil nematode population. The treatment also resulted in increased rhizosphere microbial populations. A. album MX-95 can be favourably considered as a new bionematicide to control M. javanica infestation.
Highlights
Root-knot nematodes are widespread and polyphagous pests, which cause severe yield losses to numerous vegetables [1]
No significant differences were observed in shoot height of plants grown in M. javanica infested soil treated with MX-95 or Tervigo
We investigated the effects of the bionematicide fungus A. album MX-95 on plant morphological traits, nematode populations and the rhizosphere microbiome, in the case of tomato plants infested with the root-knot nematode M. javanica
Summary
Root-knot nematodes are widespread and polyphagous pests, which cause severe yield losses to numerous vegetables [1]. Deleterious effects of pesticides on human and animal health as well as the high cost and the environmental risks related to their use, strongly evoke alternative and eco-friendly strategies for parasites management. In this perspective, the artificial introduction of microorganisms for controlling antagonists of plant development can be extremely useful in those cases in which the chemical control is not economic and unreasonably harmful for human healthy or when pesticides fail against pests because of their resistance development. Hywel-Jones and Spatafora are routinely used as bionematicides applied against plant-parasitic nematodes [4] They are worldwide diffuse microorganisms belonging to diverse phylogenetic groups (Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Zygomycota and Chytridiomycota). The fungus produces hydrolytic enzymes [8], such as chitinases, which are responsible for the total or partial degradation of cell walls of numerous plant pathogens and parasites
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