INTEGRATION OF PAECILOMYCES LILACINUS WITH NEEM LEAF SUSPENSION FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ROOT-KNOT NEMATODES ON EGG PLANT

Integration of the bio-control fungus, Paecilomyces lilacinus with neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf aqueous suspensions was attempted for the management of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on egg plant (Solanum melongena). Results revealed the suitability of neem leaf suspensions (5 and 10%) for mass multiplication of P. lilacinus. Further, significant reduction in root-knot index and final population of M. incognita were observed in the egg plant seedlings which were given root-dip treatment in neem leaf suspensions mixed with P. lilacinus spores. In addition, significant increases were observed on the colonization of P. lilacinus on the roots of egg plant and parasitization of eggs of M. incognita, indicating the complementary interaction between these two components for the sustainable management of root-knot nematodes on egg plant.