Myco-ecological warfare with Meloidogyne species

Abstract

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs), Meloidogyne, are the most widely distributed plant-parasitic nematodes. This group of soil-borne pests represents one of the largest causes of plant biotic stress that are challenging to manage, deeming them economically important. Using fungal bio-control agents (BCAs) is considered economic and ecologically friendly. This review illuminates how fungal BCAs generally decrease the negative impacts of RKNs, i.e. either via antagonistic activities or by modifying effects on plant root morphology and physiology. Of the 38 reviewed BCAs, the most studied were Arthrobotrys, Aspergillus, Lecanicillium, Purpureocillium, Trichoderma, Pochonia and Fusarium endophytes. Of the several studied fungal BCAs, approximately 10 are globally marketed. Based on literature, an understanding of the intricate interactions between fungal BCAs and Meloidogyne is a prerequisite for carrying out an appropriate method for formulation of bio-control products. The major challenge in commercialising fungal BCAs has been attributed to inconsistency concerns under different conditions, incompatibilities of BCAs species and formulation procedures that result in reduced effectiveness.