Nematicidal Efficacy of Neem (Azadirachta indica, A. Juss) Seed Extract against Meloidogyne incognita

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the nematicidal efficacy of aqueous extract of seeds of Azadirachta indica on Meloidogyne incognita, the most common and harmful gall causing nematodes in this region, with the broader objective of controlling various kind of root knot nematodes using neem and a step towards being organic and saving environment. Experimental Design: Random sampling. Duration of Study: One cropping season. The root-knot nematodes cause damage and loss of quality of products. The control of root knot nematodes require the use of nematicides, which are harmful to humans, it's environment and useful soil bacteria which contribute in nitrogen fixation. This experiment was carried out to evaluate the nematicidal potential of aqueous extract of neem seeds against root knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita). Ten to forty percent of neem seed extracts (aqueous) were prepared and applied to the potted plants and the result was monitored for two weeks. The result obtained from experiments showed that the plant treated with 10% aqueous extract of neem had the lowest mortality among Meloidogyne incognita (8.33%) and had the lowest weight gain (9.82 gm) as well as the highest number of galls (2.5%), while treatment with 40% aqueous extract of neem seeds showed the mortality of 67.5% and weight gain of 11.33 gm as well as less number of galls (0.8%) after two weeks of treatment. Thus based on these findings it can be concluded that neem seed extract has potentials to control root knot nematodes and local formers can use it in order to avoid bioaccumulation of synthetic nematicides. Use of neem based nematicides will keep the tomato cheap, safe and environmental friendly.