BIOAGENTS: AN EFFECTIVE AND ECOFRIENDLY OPTION FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF MAIZE CYST NEMATODE, HETERODERA ZEAE ON SWEET CORN (ZEA MAYS L. SACCHARATA)

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this investigation was to study the effect of seed treatment through bio-agent on maize cyst nematode, Heterodera zeae on sweet corn (variety- Madhuri). For this study, bio-agents viz., Paecilomyces lilacinus, Pochonia chlamydosporia and Trichoderma viride were tested as seed treatment at 1, 2 and 4 % w/w for the management of maize cyst nematode, H. zeae on sweet corn. A standard chemical (Acephate 2%w/w) and untreated check was also maintained for comparison. Observations on shoot weight (g), root weight (g), cyst per 100 cc soil, cyst per plant, and final larvae population per 100 cc soil were recorded to interpretate the experimental findings. Results showed that Paecilomyces lilacinus at 4 per cent was found most effective followed by Pochonia chlamydosporia at 4 per cent and Paecilomyces lilacinus at 2 per cent in enhancing plant growth of sweet corn and to reduced the infection of Heterodera zeae. Seed treatment with Paecilomyces lilacinus at 4 per cent w/w was found most effective to enhanced plant growth of sweet corn and management of H. zeae.