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Biocontrol efficacy of Pochonia chlamydosporia against root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica in eggplant and its impact on plant growth

Summary

This study shows that a beneficial fungus called Pochonia chlamydosporia can effectively control harmful root-knot nematodes that damage eggplant crops. When applied to soil, this fungus directly attacks nematode eggs and parasitizes the parasitic juveniles, while also boosting the plant’s natural defense systems. Not only does the fungus reduce nematode populations by over 55%, but it also helps eggplant plants grow better with increased height, weight, and chlorophyll content, providing a promising eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Background

Root-knot nematodes are major agricultural pests that infiltrate plant roots and significantly reduce nutrient and water absorption, affecting agricultural productivity. Chemical nematicides have restricted use due to environmental concerns, making environmentally friendly alternatives necessary. This study evaluates the biocontrol potential of Pochonia chlamydosporia against Meloidogyne javanica infection in eggplant.

Objective

To develop a PCR assay for detecting Meloidogyne javanica and assess the nematicidal activity of the biocontrol agent Pochonia chlamydosporia against M. javanica infection in eggplant. The study also evaluated the impact of P. chlamydosporia treatment on plant growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments.

Results

P. chlamydosporia significantly inhibited M. javanica egg hatching and J2 mortality in vitro, with highest inhibition at standard concentration (61.7% for eggs, 41% for J2 at 48h). In pot-grown eggplants, P. chlamydosporia reduced galls by 42.04%, egg masses significantly, and nematode population by 55.51%. Treatment improved plant height (31.8%), fresh weight (36.3%), chlorophyll content (28.9%), and carotenoid content (41.3%) compared to nematode-infected untreated plants.

Conclusion

Pochonia chlamydosporia demonstrated significant biocontrol efficacy against M. javanica in eggplant through direct parasitism of nematode eggs and juveniles while simultaneously promoting plant growth and photosynthetic capacity. The results highlight P. chlamydosporia’s potential as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical nematicides for integrated pest management of root-knot diseases in eggplant cultivation.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41125826, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-99527-2
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