Antagonistic potential of indigenous Trichoderma spp against Meloidogyne javanica

Root-knot nematodes are sedentary endoparasites and most widely distributed in sandy loamy soils. Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) and M. javanica (Treub) are affecting food legumes in tropical and subtropical regions. These nematodes have wide host ranges. Because of nonavailability of nematicides, research of alternative methods against these enemies is necessary. Beneficial fungi in the genus Trichoderma have been known since 1920s as a bio control agents against several plant pathogens and nematode pests. The resident isolates of Trichoderma harzianum (IIPRTh-1, Th-2, Th-4, Th-25 & Th-26), T. asperellum (IIPRTas-21, Tas-22, Tas-23 & Tas-24) tested against Meloidogyne javanica showed a nematicide effect in egg parasitism and egg hatching. Those effectiveness varied with species and isolates under laboratory conditions. Culture of T.harzianum (IIPRTh-4) was most effective against the Meloidogyne javanica in regards to egg parasitism (50%) and egg hatching inhibition (86%) compared to controls. Thus, T. harzianum (IIPRTh-4) showed good bio control potential against root-knot nematode, M. javanica under in vitro conditions can further be evaluated for its commercial use as bio-control agent against root knot nematodes.