First report on occurrence of citrus root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne indica on khasi mandarin in Meghalaya

Abstract

Occurrence of citrus Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne indica on the Khasi mandarin roots was first time noticed in village Mawphanniew of West Khasi hills in Meghalaya. The present observation delineated the information on M. indica from roots by its extraction and got identified with description of perineal pattern. In this regard, a strict vigil on arresting further its spread is being hereby proposed. The random survey indicated that the presence of root–knot nematode (14.8 (J2) / 200 cc of soil) only on Khasi mandarin saplings confirming the species as M. indica showing with monolocular galls (3.5 gall index) by its development but not get attained to a maturity level with production of egg masses and eggs and larval deposition in it. However, the younger saplings being prone to attack by them causing decline of citrus showing the plantation with sparse plants which led to replanting subsequently. Hence, the source of seedling, culling of affected seedlings while performing procurement is being recommended to the local farmers for prevention of its spread in a larger way in the state of Meghalaya.