Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne Species) Distribution in Some Tomato Fields in Makurdi

Studies were conducted to assess the distribution of root-knot nematode in some tomato fields in Makurdi from October 2010 to January 2011. Tomato plants were surveyed for infection based on symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and wilting in farmers' farm for determining disease incidence. Number of knots (NK) and root knot index (RKI) was used for disease severity. Disease plant Samples were collected and taken to the laboratory for extraction. Perineal patterns were prepared and examined under the microscope and species identified using appropriate keys. The result shows incidence range from 20%-60% in October, 2010 and 20%-80% January, 2011 while the severity of the disease ranged from 1-3 in October, 2010 and 1-4 in January, 2011. Significant differences (P=0.05) in the study areas. Egg Mass Index (EMI) and Gall Index (GI) ranged from 1.0 - 4.0. Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica were identified to be the causes of infection. It is suggested that control methods should be applied in the nematode management in farmers fields