Incidence and Integrated Management of Meloidogyne graminicola in Maize Fields of Central Punjab, Pakistan

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Abstract

Meloidogyne graminicola constrains maize production in Central Punjab, Pakistan. This study surveyed M. graminicola incidence and evaluated an integrated management (IDM) strategy. Field surveys revealed incidence up to 9.4% in hotspots. 'Sahiwal-Gold' was highly susceptible (122 females/root); 'VH-1898' showed resistance (47 females/root). The IDM approach, combining biocontrol agents ( Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus megaterium, Purpureocillium lilacinum ) with nematicides (fluopyram, cadusafos, cartap), reduced root juvenile nematodes by 85% compared to inoculated controls (p < 0.05). IDM significantly improved plant height (15% increase), biomass (19% increase), and 100-grain weight (25% increase) over inoculated controls, achieving yields approaching healthy control levels (e.g., 100-grain weight: 34.2 g vs. 36.2 g). Findings demonstrate IDM offers a highly effective strategy for managing M. graminicola and improving maize yields in infested regions.

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