Root knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) of Chickpea:

Identification

• Root knot nematodes are microscopic roundworms, obligate endo-parasites.

• The root-knot nematodes are widely distributed in nurseries and uplands or in well-drained soils all over India.

 

                          

Damage

• Nematodes damage cotton by attacking the young tap and secondary roots. Their feeding stimulates the production of galls. 
• These galls interfere with the roots ability to absorb  water and nutrients, and provide locations for other disease-producing organisms, such as fungi (Fusarium) or bacteria, to readily enter the plant.
• Chlorosis, wilting, delay in flowering and fruit formation, reduction in plant size, yield etc. may be noted in above ground parts of infected plants
• Distinct galls shaped like spindles, beads or clubs, develop around the position where nematode places  itself in the root of the plant.

Cultural Control

• Deep summer ploughing 
• Crop rotations with non-host crop
• Use of resistant varieties 
• Soil solarization using clear thins polythene cover for 3-6 weeks in summer has been also found very effective. 
• Plough the main field twice in summer reduces nematode population and crop damage.
• If injury is high, soil fumigation may be needed.

Chemical Control

• The soil treatment of nursery beds with carbofuran @ 0.3 g a.i./ sq.m. 
• Root dip treatment with systematic pesticides and hot water treatment of dormant infected planting material before transplanting in the main field is also recommended