Combating Root-Knot Nematodes:Boosting Guava Health and Productivity

Abstract

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is the 4th most commercially important fruit crop in India and is indigenous to tropical America. India leads in global guava production, but the area of expansion is declining due to biotic stresses. Among the major constraints in its commercial cultivation is the root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.), which significantly hampers productivity. Recently, Meloidogyne enterolobii was reported from Tamil Nadu, which is considered a serious threat to guava cultivation. This nematode causes substantial yield loss across various crops, resulting in considerable economic damage to growers. RKNs can cause yield loss of 60 to 80% in guava. M. enterolobii possesses a wide host range, enabling its survival and spread across cropping systems. Effective management strategies include the use of bio-agents, bio-pesticides and chemical nematicides such as Carbofuran.