Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Vikas Rathi, Kamal Khilari, Ramji Singh, Prashant Mishra, Gaje Singh and MK Yadav

Abstract:
Guava (Psidium guajava L.), globally renowned for its nutritional and flavorful attributes, confronts challenges due to root-knot nematodes. The Meloidogyne genus, especially M. enterolobii, poses significant threats to agriculture. This study addresses the urgent need to manage M. enterolobii infestations in guava by investigating screening and detection methodologies. Nine well-recognized guava varieties viz., L-49, Lalit, Hisar Safeda, Sweta, Allahabad Barfkhan, Pant Prabhat, Hisar Surkha, Red Flesh and Dhawal were subjected to controlled pot experiments, revealing their responses to M. enterolobii infestations. The results demonstrated susceptibility across all tested varieties, without any highly resistant genotypes. During this experiment 179.33 galls/5 g of roots were recorded in Sweta followed by 141.33 galls/5 g of roots were recorded in Red Flesh. Whereas, minimum 56 galls/5 g of roots were recorded in Hisar Surkh variety of guava. The absence of strong resistance underscore the gravity of M. enterolobii infestations in guava cultivation, necessitating integrated pest management strategies. Such strategies could include soil management, crop rotation, and the development of nematode-resistant cultivars.