Evaluation of application methods of the nematode trapping fungus, Arthrobotrys oligospora a potential biocontrol agent of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on Okra

A trial was conducted in earthen pots to evaluate the efficacy of talc-based formulation of nematode trapping fungus, Arthrobotrys oligospora as seed treatment and soil application against root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on okra under screen house. The highest lengths and weights of shoot and root were recorded in the treatment that received soil application of the fungus @ 3% w/w and the minimum was found in nematode alone treatment. The nematode multiplication was significantly reduced in the treatment with soil application of the fungus at both the doses (1.5 & 3.0). The highest reduction in number of galls, egg mass/plant and eggs/egg mass was 42.6, 48.4 and 43.4% respectively in treatment that received soil application of the fungus @ 3% w/W. Soil application of the fungus was found superior in reducing the nematode population compared to seed treatment.