This study evaluates the quality of dairy waste compost by assessing its effect on monocot and dicot seed germination using the tray method. Compost samples were mixed with soil in varying ratios, and germination rate, root, and shoot lengths of Vigna radiata (green gram) and Triticum aestivum (wheat) were recorded. The compost was produced using a Smartenviro Systems drum composter containing 40 kg of dairy sludge and 10 kg of sawdust as a bulking agent. Composting was carried out for 12–15 days at 45–55°C under thermophilic conditions, with daily drum rotation using a 0.5 HP geared motor for uniform aeration and mixing. The sawdust improved the C: N balance, enhancing organic matter degradation and yielding stable, odor-free compost. The automated, enclosed design minimized labor and leachate loss. Germination assays indicated that the compost-soil mixtures were non-phytotoxic and promoted early plant growth. Pathogen analysis confirmed the absence of Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus; however, detectable Escherichia coli and elevated chromium (Cr) levels above regulatory limits indicate incomplete sanitization and highlight the need for additional stabilization or post-treatment before unrestricted agricultural application. Overall, the results demonstrate the potential of controlled compost-soil blending for sustainable dairy waste management, while emphasizing the importance of further treatment to ensure microbiological and chemical safety.

BackgroundPlant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) are major pathogens of fruit trees globally, causing substantial economic losses. In Kenya, research on papaya has focused primarily on viral diseases, particularly those caused by papaya ringspot virus, with no previous reports of PPNs occurrence.ObjectivesThis study aimed to characterise the diversity of PPNs and FLNs in papaya fields in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya, and to assess the associated soil health status. Special emphasis was placed on evaluating FLNs as bioindicators of soil health.MethodsUsing the Baermann tray method, nematodes were extracted from 64 composite root and soil samples collected across 12 papaya fields in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. PPNs were identified to the genus level, with root-knot (RKN) Meloidogyne species identified by comparing their sequences with reference sequences and analysed using the PPNID tool. The FLNs were classified to the family level and analysed using NINJA software to assess soil health.ResultsFour PPN genera and six FLN families were identified, with Meloidogyne javanica being the only RKN, representing the first PPN report in papaya in Kenya. This raises concerns about potential interactions between M. javanica and viral pathogens, which could increase the incidence and severity of papaya ringspot disease. Metabolic footprint stress diagram analyses revealed fertile, mature soils capable of regulating opportunistic organisms, including PPNs.ConclusionUnderstanding soil health and nematode composition is essential for developing sustainable nematode management strategies to increase papaya yields.

Abstract. Pradana AP, Izzatika ZN, Addy HS. 2025. Molecular detection of Dorylaimus stagnalis (Durjan, 1845), in the rhizosphere of soybean plants in Jember District, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 1913-1919. Nematodes, members of the phylum Nematoda, are ubiquitous soil organisms whose community composition provides critical insights into soil health and ecosystem function. The genus Dorylaimus is of particular ecological interest due to its adaptability and role in nutrient cycling within diverse terrestrial environments. This study documents the first molecular and morphometric confirmation of Dorylaimus stagnalis (Dujardin, 1845), in the rhizosphere of soybean (Glycine max) in Jember District, Indonesia. Soil samples were systematically collected from 15 distinct sites within soybean fields using a standardized protocol, and nematodes were extracted via the Whitehead tray method. Detailed morphological observations were made using an Olympus BX50 light microscope, and morphometric measurements were obtained following De Man’s ratios, which collectively confirmed diagnostic features consistent with D. stagnalis as reported in previous studies. Molecular characterization was performed by PCR amplification of the 28S-D2D3 region followed by Sanger sequencing. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis revealed 94% sequence similarity to established reference sequences (AY592994.1 and AY592995.1) and a low genetic distance of 0.1058, thereby substantiating the taxonomic identity of the specimens. This study’s integrative approach not only verifies the presence of D. stagnalis in Indonesia but also indicates subtle morphometric variations potentially attributable to local environmental pressures. Its findings expand the current understanding of nematode biodiversity in Indonesian agroecosystems and provide a framework for future research on sustainable soil management practices.

In order to maintain soil fertility and quality, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem processes, the population and diversity of soil organisms are crucial. This study was carried out at the Arboretum of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt, and examined the diversity and population of nematodes and earthworms under a few chosen trees. Samples of soil, roots, and earthworms were randomly taken from the rhizosphere of trees at a depth of 0–30 cm using a spade and hand trowel. The extraction tray method was used to extract nematodes, the hand sorting and ethological method was used to collect and count earthworms, and the analysis of variance was performed on the data collected, and least significant difference was used to separate the means. Results showed significant difference in earthworm population across all trees with the highest earthworm population observed under Annona muricata (25.8), while lowest earthworm population was recorded under Irvingia gabonensis. Nematode population ranged from 3.0 – 53.0 while earthworm population ranged from 7 – 25.8 under the various tree species. Four (4) nematode species were identified, and Dorylaimida spp was the most predominant nematode. All five selected tropical tree species had effect on nematode community structure and earthworm population but Tectona grandis exerted the greatest effect. These impacts may be due to passive byproducts of nutrient intake, root shape, shearing habitat preference by trees and soil organisms, or active selection for soil microbes by plants through root exudates. These trees could be used in sustainable agriculture and agroforestry.

The present investigation entitled “Performance of different micronutrients on the growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) cv. Salem produced by pro tray method.” was conducted during the year 2023-2024 at AICRP, on Spices, Asond Block, Central Experimental Station, Wakavali, Dapoli, Dist- Ratnagiri (M.S.), India. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with nine treatment namely T1: Control (RDF: 200:50:150 kg NPK ha-1), T2: Foliar spray of ZnSO4@ 0.5%, T3: Foliar spray ZnSO4 @ 0.75%, T4: Foliar spray of Borax @ 0.2%, T5: Foliar spray of Borax @ 0.3%, T6: Foliar spray MnSO4 @ 0.25%, T7: Foliar spray of MnSO4 @ 0.5%, T8: Foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.3%, T9: Foliar spray of FeSO4@ 0.4% and each treatment was replicated three times. The observations were recorded at 30 days interval at 60, 90, 120 and 150 days after transplanting. The results obtained from the present experiment revealed that application of RDF + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.75 % showed overall best results in growth characters at 150 Days after transplanting like Plant height (81.97 cm), leaf length (56.11 cm), leaf width (16.56cm), number of leaves (15.56) and number of tillers (3.5). Thus, from the results obtained, it can be concluded that application of RDF + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.75 % was the most effective for maximizing the growth parameters of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Konkan agro- climatic conditions.

To improve approaches for studying soil tardigrades, we compared three tardigrade extraction methods, including centrifugal flotation, Baermann funnel, and Whitehead tray, and found that the Whitehead tray method outperformed the two others. We optimised the Whitehead tray extraction condition under various soil pre-treatment processes, sample sizes, light exposure, and extraction time. We found that extending light exposure of non-sieved soils facilitates the extraction of tardigrades. We sequenced the DNA extracted from isolated tardigrade individuals and environmental soil samples, and found that tardigrade DNA extracts yielded a 173-fold increase in the proportion of tardigrade sequences and a 12-fold improvement in the estimation of tardigrade diversity.

A predatory arthropod is an organism that eats or preys on another organism in an agroecosystem to maintain its life and fulfill its food needs. This research aims determine the diversity of predatory arthropods in the coffee plantations of Patokpicis Village, Wajak District, Malang Regency. This research was conducted in November-March 2023. Type of research This is a quantitative descriptive method with data collection using the direct observation method and the beating tray method. The sampling technique involves making systematic line transect sampling at each station in 10 plots with 3 replications at 2 research locations in the ST 1 and ST 2 areas for sampling. The results of research at the two stations obtained 11 families with 19 genera. The diversity index and dominance index values at stations 1 and 2 are different, namely the diversity index (H') for station 1 is 1,692 and the dominance index (C) is 0.322, while at station 2 the diversity index (H') value is 1,939 and the dominance index (C ) is 0.183. The results of the correlation coefficient test show that the correlation between the diversity of predatory insects and abiotic factors is air temperature with a value of 0.378 (low). The correlation coefficient value between predatory insect diversity and abiotic factors is light intensity with a value of 0.363 (low). The correlation coefficient value between predatory insect diversity and abiotic factors is air humidity with a value of -0.461 (medium). Keywords: beating tray, diversity, predatory arthropods.

Longidorus is a species of nematode that can be harmful to plants. Some of these nematodes are plant pests and can also transmit plant viruses such as potato virus U and cacao necrosis virus. Accurate identification of these nematodes is imperative due to their detrimental impact on agricultural crops. This study was conducted in 2022 at Limpopo University to and determine the plant-parasitic nematodes. The nematode was found and extracted using the tray method. Then, its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. 18S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the small subunit ribosomal DNA showed a 99% similarity with a population of Longidorus pisi (MK172049) from Bulgaria. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis was performed using the neighbor-joining method implemented in mega x software. The analysis indicated that the South African populations of L. pisi are similar to other L. pisi, with a 99-bootstrap value. In conclusion, there is a need to investigate the diversity of this species to assess the impact of this nematode on crop yields.

Acrobeloides nanus, belonging to the family Cephalobidae (Cephalobomorpha), are bacterivores that inhabit soil. Information on bacteria-feeding nematodes is sparse. Therefore, identifying this group of nematodes is important because they are one of the main consumers of soil bacteria. Hence, study on this group of nematodes is essential. This molecular study was conducted in 2024 at Limpopo University to identify the free-living bacterivores nematodes from South Africa's soils, using a 28S rDNA marker. The nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as A. nanus. In addition, molecular sequence data of the D2-D3 region of 28S rDNA from this species are provided as DNA barcode sequences. The Nblast analysis based on the 28S rDNA showed that South African A. nanus has a 99% similarity (KX669640) with the population of the Republic of Korea. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as A. nanus in the same clade with highly supported (89%) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was properly identified using 28S rDNA. However, other rDNA markers are recommended to better understand Acrobeloides phylogeny.

Bacterivorous nematodes are a type of nematodes that live in the soil. Free-living bacterivores are crucial for the soil food web, biological control, and ecological studies. Within the free-living bacterivorous nematodes, Panagrolaimus is a species that feeds on pathogenic bacteria, making it important in the transmission of plant-pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, Panagrolaimus plays a role in the nitrification of minerals in the soil. In 2023, a molecular study was conducted at the University of Limpopo to identify bacterivorous nematodes in South Africa's soils using the 28S rDNA marker. The nematode was extracted using the tray method, and its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. It was then identified as Panagrolaimus. To further identify the nematode, 18S rDNA was amplified using specific primers. The Nblast analysis based on the small subunit ribosomal DNA showed that South African Panagrolaimus has a 95% similarity (EU543176) with the Belgian population. Based on a phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood, this species has been placed within the same clade as other species identified as Panagrolaimus, with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. Therefore, this species has been properly identified using 18S rDNA. However, to gain a better understanding of the phylogeny of Panagrolaimus, it is recommended to use other DNA markers as well.

The Cephalobidae (Free-living nematodes) family are bacterivores that inhabit soil. Bacterial-feeding nematodes are one of the main consumers of soil bacteria. Therefore, study on this group of nematodes is essential. This molecular study was conducted in 2024 at Limpopo University to identify the free-living bacterivores nematodes from South Africa's soils, using a 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Zeldia punctata. Afterwards, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the 28S rDNA showed South African Z. punctata has 98% similarity (DQ145662) with the American population. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as Z. punctata in the same clade with highly supported (94%) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was properly identified using 28S rDNA. However, other rDNA markers are recommended to better understand Zeldia phylogeny.

Dorylaim nematodes inhabit soil and are predatory, primarily feeding on other nematodes. This predatory behaviour positions them as a potential natural solution to combat plant-parasitic nematodes. By preying on their fellow nematodes, they contribute significantly to ecological diversity. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2022 at the University of Limpopo to identify the soil nematodes from South Africa using a 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method. The Chelex method was used to extract DNA, and the nematode was identified as Discolaimium. Afterward, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the small subunit ribosomal DNA showed that South African Discolaimium has a 97% similarity (MG921263) with the Chinese population of Discolaimium. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as Discolaimium in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was properly identified using 28S rDNA. However, other DNA markers are recommended to understand the Discolaimium phylogeny better.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are the main nematodes that live in the soil, causing yield loss in various crops. As endoparasites, Pratylenchus species can reduce the yield of grass and other plants by feeding on their roots. Because of its parasitic nature on plants, this species requires careful identification; in South Africa's Limpopo Province, grasslands are among the most vital agricultural resources. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at Limpopo University to identify the nematode from South Africa's soils using 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the chelex method. The nematode was identified as Pratylenchus. Afterward, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode at the molecular level. The Nblast analysis based on the large subunit ribosomal DNA showed South African Pratylenchus had 99% similarity (OQ343703) with the South African population. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as Pratylenchus in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was identified using 28S rDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS rDNA and mtDNA is recommended for a better understanding of Pratylenchus phylogeny.

Maize stands as a crucial cereal crop on a global scale, encountering up to 112 diseases, with over 70 being seed-borne. Use of bioagents not only safeguards the environment but also enhances the cost-effectiveness of production initiatives and addresses concerns related to pesticide residue. Maize plants are vulnerable to a range of diseases that significantly diminish both crop yield and quality. One prominent disease is banded leaf and sheath blight, caused by the highly prevalent and destructive pathogen Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii. In present study, the seed treatments with bacterial and fungal bio- agents on maize seed (variety DOP-339). The seed quality parameters were recorded by multi-pots tray method. Seed priming with bacterial bio-agent ie. Pseudomonas sihuinsis (96 %), Bacillus aerophilus (94.67 %), Pseudomonas stutzeri (94.33 %) and Enterobacter cloacae (94 %) significantly increased seed germination over control (92.67 %). Pseudomonas sihuinsis showed the highest shoot length (11.84 cm), root length (8.78 cm) and vigour index (854.72). Similarly, seed biopriming with fungal bio-agents with Trichoderma harzianum (96.75 %) and Trichoderma afroharzianum (97.50 %) were at par with each other in seed germination over control (93.25 %). T. harzianum showed highest root length (9.02 cm), fresh weight (15.77 g) and seedling vigour index (883.81) followed by T. afroharzianum. T. afroharzianum showed highest shoot length (12.29 cm) followed by T. harzianum (11.12 cm). while both were at par with each other in dry weight. Nigrospora sphaerica 2A, N. sphaerica 7D and N. zimmermanii 8C also displayed positive effects on various parameters as compared to control.

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), consisting of genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis are biological agents proven effective in killing insect pests. Organic rice fields and sandy soil textures are potential areas for exploring the presence of EPNs. This research aims to determine the diversity of genera and populations of entomopathogenic nematodes in organic rice fields in Sleman Regency. The study was conducted on organic rice fields and the UPN "Veteran" Yogyakarta Plant Protection Laboratory from July – August 2023. EPNs were obtained from Prambanan Sleman and Ngemplak Sleman, with six plots as sample units in every location. EPNs were isolated from soil samples by using Tenebri molitor larvae. The Whitehead tray method was used to isolate EPNs from the dead larvae, and the population of EPNs was counted. EPNs were identified based on the symptoms of color changes on the cuticle and morphological characters. The result showed that the cuticles of T. molitor larvae that died were blackish brown in Prambanan and Ngaliyan isolates, referred to Steinernema genera. EPNs were found in Prambanan_6, Ngaliyan_1, and Ngaliyan_2. The highest population of EPNs was on Ngaliyan_1 (38,00 EPNs/ml), and the lowest was on Prambanan_6 (2,13 EPNs/ml). Based on the morphological characters of EPNs, on the Prambanan_4, Ngaliyan_1, and Ngaliyan_2, EPNs were identified as Steinernema spp. The characteristics of Steinernema in the infective juvenile stage found are: slender body, anterior end slightly rounded and fused with the body, cylindrical stoma, no second cuticular sheath, not annulated, and conoid tail.

An experiment was set up in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to examine the influence of nursery growing methods and growth medium on fever, tea germination, and seedling development. Two nursery growth methods (Conventional-CON and Float tray system FTs) and six different growing medium (pine bark, peat moss, coco peat, vermiculite, sand, and cattle manure) were used. ANOVA was used to compare treatment means, and means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) at a 5 % significance level. The nursery growing method and growth material exhibited a strong interaction regarding the germination index, germination percentage, seedling height, leaf area, root length, density, and final crop stand. The float tray approach yielded the greatest germination index for peat moss and the lowest for cattle manure. In the float tray method, peat moss and coco peat had the highest germination percentages, whereas cattle manure had the lowest. Under the float tray technique, the tallest seedlings emerged in peat moss and the smallest in coco peat. Peat moss had the most leaf area in the float tray system, whereas coco peat had the least in the conventional technique. Peat moss in the float tray system had the highest root length density while coco peat in the conventional technique had the lowest. Peat moss in the float tray system had the highest final crop stand, whereas seedlings in the conventional and float tray systems had nothing. based on the findings, it is recommended that fever tea seedlings be grown on peat moss using the float tray method

Plant-parasitic nematodes are the main nematodes that live in the soil, causing yield loss in various crops. Since Xiphinema oxycaudatum is an ectoparasite, it can reduce crop yields by feeding on the roots of crops like maize. Correct identification of this species is crucial as maize is a vital crop in South Africa's Limpopo Province. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at Limpopo University to identify the nematode from South Africa's soils using 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the chelex method. The nematode was identified as Xiphinema. Afterward, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode at the molecular level. The Nblast analysis based on the large subunit ribosomal DNA showed South African X. oxycaudatum had 99% similarity (MK966417) with the South African population. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as X. oxycaudatum in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. While 28S rDNA was used to successfully identify this species, further investigation into the phylogeny of X. oxycaudatum will benefit from the addition of other rDNA markers such as ITS rDNA and mitochondrial DNA.

Plant parasitic nematodes belonging to the family Longidoridae live in the soil, causing crop yield loss. Nematodes of the genus Xiphinema, commonly called dagger nematodes, parasitize various plants. Many of these nematodes, the majority of them belonging to the Xiphinema americanum group, can transfer viruses to plants during feeding and cause yield loss. This species is indicated to be highly risky to plants and must be identified correctly, and it is associated with macadamia as one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at the Limpopo University to identify the Xiphinema from South Africa's soils using the cox1 region of mtDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Xiphinema americanum. Afterwards, cox1 of mtDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the mtDNA showed South African X. americanum had 99% similarity (AM086690) with the South African population. Additionally, it showed 99% similarity with a population of X. americanum (KX263061) from the USA. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as X. americanum in the same clade with highly supported 100 bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using cox1 of mtDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS and rDNA, were recommended to understand Xiphinema phylogeny better.

Plant parasitic nematodes are the main nematodes that live in the soil, causing yield loss for various crops. Pratylenchus species is endoparasite and known as root lesion nematode, therefore, can feed on the roots of the banana, resulting in necrosis and less production. This species is indicated to be highly risky to plants and must be identified correctly, and it is associated with bananas as one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at the Limpopo University to identify the Pratylenchus from South Africa's soils using the cox1 region of mtDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Pratylenchus vulnus. Afterwards, cox1 of mtDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode. The Nblast analysis based on the mtDNA showed that South African P. vulnus had 99% similarity (KY424096; KY424097) with Chinese populations. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as P. vulnus in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using cox1 of mtDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS, and rDNA, were recommended for a better understanding of Pratylenchus phylogeny.

Dorylaimida members are medium to large nematodes that live in the soil and create a balanced environment towards improving yield in various crops. Aporcella species are omnivores and, therefore, can feed on other nematodes around the roots of maize, resulting in better production. This species must be identified correctly because it is a beneficial nematode and can enhance the yield of maize through the microbial balancing of the soil. On the other hand, maize is one of the most important crops in Limpopo Province in South Africa. Therefore, this molecular study was conducted in 2023 at Limpopo University to identify the nematode from South Africa's soils using 28S rDNA marker. The recovered nematode was extracted using the tray method, and then its DNA was extracted using the Chelex method. The nematode was identified as Aporcella simplex (Thorne and Swanger). Afterwards, 28S rDNA was amplified using specific primers to identify the nematode at the molecular level. The Nblast analysis based on the large subunit ribosomal DNA showed that South African A. simplex had 99% similarity (MN262455) with the South African population. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood placed this species with those molecularly identified as A. simplex in the same clade with highly supported (100) bootstrap values. In conclusion, this species was determined using 28S rDNA; however, other rDNA markers, such as ITS rDNA and mtDNA, are recommended for a better understanding of A. simplex phylogeny.