Peanut root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp) are well known for causing losses to the crops and poor health to the plants. These small insects infest the roots of plants resulting in formation of galls, low nutrient uptake and slow growth which in one way or the other reduces yield. Hence, the importance of efficient management practices which include the use of biocontrols such as Paecilomyces lilacinus nematode control by Novobac and root knot nematode organic treatment, among others.
Understanding Peanut Root-Knot Nematodes
Root-knot nematodes are parasitic worms that dwell in the soil and affect many crops: peanuts among others. These nematodes enter into the root tissues of the plants and create a feeding area where they make roots develop galls. These galls obstruct the vascular tissues hence leading to a hindrance to nutrient and water absorption. Thus, plants infected with the virus have signs like yellowing of the leaves, wilting and a general reduction in vigour.
On the Economic Aspect on Yield of Crops
Peanut fields infested with root-knot nematodes become economically disastrous due to effect of the pathogen. Research has revealed that these storms can cut yields by between 20% and 50%, within the worst affected areas and the worst season. This yield reduction is as a result of a limited root system as it affects the uptake of nutrients and water by the plant.
Plant Health Deterioration
Thus, root-knot nematodes result in considerable yield losses of plants, in addition to which they have negative effects on plant health. Fowel also occurs at the root level and the formation of galls leads to more entry points for secondaries to attack, hence disease Magnify. Also, plants that are infected with nematodes are sensitive to water stress especially because the damaged roots cannot effectively draw water. The initial effect of nematodes and secondary infections reduces the strength of the plants, and therefore their ability to survive other stresses.
Biological Control: Paecilomyces Lilacinus Nematode Control
One of the strategies that have brought more hope when used to control root-knot nematodes is biological control. Fungus, naturally occurring and especially Paecilomyces lilacinus has been found to be very effective in controlling nematodes. As a mycoparasite it helps to decrease the population of nematodes that are detrimental to plants, by attacking their eggs in the soil. Through proper implementation of the Paecilomyces lilacinus nematode control mechanism, farmer’s stand the least chances of nematodes affecting or rather damaging their peanut crops. It is another biological control technique which proved to be harmless to the environment unlike the use of chemical nematicides, hence supporting green agriculture.
Nematode organic treatment for root knot nematodes
NEMA PRO our product that contains Paecilomyces lilacinus as the active compound. This nematicide is aimed at eliminating nematode threats to plant health thus supporting higher plant growth and better yields.
So, what are the ways of eradicating root-knot nematodes? On account of organics’ environmental-friendliness, their application for treating root-knot nematodes is increasing. Neem oil and mustard seed meal have proved to be effective nematicides, though they are organic in nature. The main remaining organic treatments operate based on nematode life cycle interference and improvement of soil state. Incorporation of root knot nematode organic treatment in the management system of crops is of benefit in replacing the use of synthetic chemicals and encouraging healthier effect in the soils.
Integrated Nematode Management
Control of nematodes is achieved through an IPM, which entails the use of several approaches. Crop rotation is a principle practice that reduces nematode reproduction through growing crops that nematodes are attracted to and those which they repel in succession. Also, allowing the use of cover crops for example marigold and sunn hemp can help in reducing nematode numbers through natural hostility.
Another vital area is the health of the soil. Organic matters like composts, manure in the soil help create a better structure that aids microbial population which in turn suppress the nematodes. Farmers should also embrace the resistant peanut varieties that have been produced through breeding programs with a view of dealing with nematode attack.
Conclusion
Peanut root-knot nematodes are a real scourge to yields and the overall wellbeing of crops. These pests are a thorn in the flesh to the peanut farmers due to the immense harm they cause to the plant and overall yield loss. Yet, biological controls such as’ Paecilomyces lilacinus nematode control, and root knot nematode organic treatment’ can suppress the nematodes and at the same time practice integrated soil management.
The understanding of these methods and combination of all these approaches in one strategy for the control of nematodes is the key to healthy crops and sustainable agriculture. From the various findings as to the effects of root-knot nematodes on crops, and with the use of organic nematicides and other natural farming techniques, farmers can overcome this biotic factor that wreaks havoc to their crops and ensure its sustainability for generations to come.
