Effect of Biological Factors in Physiological and Growth Indicators of Okra Plant [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] and Percentage of (NPK) Elements with Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica)

Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L., is an important crop in Iraq because of its nutritional and industrial uses. Diseases and pests have severe problems for okra farming, chiefly root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne javanica), which lower yield. By evaluating the efficiency of biological control agents, such as Abamectin, in reducing the effects of root-knot nematodes, improving okra growth and increasing nutrient uptake (NPK) as an alternative to dangerous chemical pesticides, this study aims to improve sustainable agricultural practices.

To evaluate biological agents against M. javanica in okra, a field experiment was conducted at the University of Kufa utilizing a completely randomized block design (CRD) with three replications. Sterilized soil was used to sow okra seeds and each pot was given with 2500 nematode eggs. Streptomyces Paecillomyces variotii, avermitilis and Celest 10% FS were among the seed treatments. By removing and counting second-instar larvae from egg masses, nematode populations were assessed and growth parameters such as plant height, weight, fruit yield and nodes were measured.

In comparison to controls, S. avermitilis and P. variotii considerably decreased M. javanica populations, enhancing plant growth indices (weight, fruit yield, height and nodes). Furthermore, okra plants’ absorption of phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) was improved by biological treatments. Abamectin was one of the combination treatments that successfully reduced the quantity of nematode eggs per root. Significantly, the development of okra plants was unaffected by these biological agents, demonstrating their potential as long-term nematodes.