Eco-friendly management of root-knot nematode in mulberry using selected biocontrol agents: A pot culture study

Abstract

Mulberry (Morus spp.) serves as the sole food source for the silkworm (Bombyx mori), and the quality of its foliage is directly linked to successful cocoon and silk production. However, the cultivation of mulberry is often hindered by soil-borne pests, particularly plant-parasitic nematodes. Among these, the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita is a major concern, causing severe root damage, reduced nutrient uptake, stunted growth, and diminished leaf yield. Although chemical nematicides have been widely used for control, their prolonged application poses environmental risks, including soil degradation, residue accumulation, and the development of resistant nematode strains. In the present study, a pot culture experiment was conducted under glasshouse conditions at the College of Sericulture, Chintamani, to evaluate the effectiveness of selected biocontrol agents. Treatments included individual microbial agents and two microbial consortia. Notably, Microbial Consortium 1 (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis, and Lecanicillium lecanii) and Consortium 2 (Trichoderma harzianum, P. fluorescens, and L. lecanii) significantly enhanced plant growth and reduced nematode reproduction compared to untreated controls. These findings highlight the potential of microbial biocontrol strategies as sustainable alternatives to chemical nematicides in mulberry cultivation.