Screening of Trichoderma Spp. isolates against rice root knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola)

The rice root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola), is one of the most devastating pests in rice-growing fields that causes significant yield reduction annually. Present study was conducted to work out the effectiveness of different isolates of Trichoderma against this serious pest. Study consisted of 34 isolates of Trichoderma. All the isolates showed their effectiveness against root knot nematode. Minimum number of galls/plant was recorded in S13 (0) and S32 (0) isolates of Trichoderma, and its maximum number was recorded in S31 (16.00) followed by S21 (6.00), S23 (6.00) and S16 (5.66). The inoculated isolates increased shoot as well as root length over control. Maximum shoot length S35 (95.16 cm) and root length S37 (42.00 cm) were recorded in isolates of Trichoderma. Minimum shoot length S36 (56.76 cm) and root length S34 (12.33 cm) were recorded in isolates of Trichoderma. Thus, the results of present study indicated that the use of Trichoderma isolates could be a better option in integrated nematode management programme (INM) which will reduce environmental pollution.