Evaluation of VAM for management of root-knot nematode in Brinjal

Different isolates of VAM fungi like Glomus fasciculatum, G. etunicatum, G. mosseae, G. constrictum, G. monosporum and A. morroweae were evaluated for their efficacy in controlling root-knot nematode infestation in brinjal. These cultures did not show any significant difference in growth parameters (height and number of leaves) at transplanting and one month after transplanting. Later, (45 and 60 days after transplanting) significant increase in height and number of leaves were observed in plants raised in soil inoculated with G. etunicatum and G. fasciculatum. Higher percentage of VA mycorrhizal colonisation was observed in plants artificially inoculated with VAM. Plants raised in G. etunicatum, G. fasciculatum and G. monosporum recorded significantly lower root-knot indices. The fecundity of the nematode was also significantly reduced in mycorrhizae treated plants. G. fasciculatum registered the lowest population per gram root while G. fasciculatum and G. constrictum significantly lowered the nematode population in the soil.