Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) an emerging problem in pointed gourd in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, India: a serious threat

Abstract

Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita has emerged as one of the serious threats to vegetable production throughout the world due to its adaptable nature, wide host range, and ability to cause huge losses. The losses caused by a root-knot nematode, M. incognita may vary from 16 to 80%. The various diagnostic symptoms are stunted growth, yellowing, root gall formation of the vegetable crop. A survey was conducted in Sitapur district and it was revealed that root-knot nematode is one of the serious threats in pointed gourd production, approximately 20 to 50% yield was recorded and it was observed that it is one of the limiting factors and will be a serious threat. The diagnostic symptoms degree depends upon several factors such as time of infection, variety, a load of inoculums, and abiotic factors such as soil type, texture, moisture, pH, carbon content, etc. Farmers were advised to use eco-friendly approaches such as removal of weeds, summer plowing, use of organic amendments and resistant cultivar may reduce the nematode population.