Root-knot nematode (RKN), Meloidogyne incognita, inflicts significant greenhouse crop damage, causing over 40% economic losses. While chemical agents effectively control RKN, they leave harmful residue in soil and crops. To address this issue, we investigated soil-derived entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in this study. We assessed the nematicidal impact of ten EPF species through in vivo and in vitro tests. Beauveria bassiana JEF-503 exhibited nematicidal effectiveness exceeding 65% in both experimental settings. In a semi-field test using greenhouse pots, we experimented with the application of B. bassiana JEF-503 suspension during tomato growth, which is an uncommon practice in comparison to chemical treatments due to residue concerns. B. bassiana JEF-503 was applied during transplantation, and the same application was repeated four weeks later. JEF-503 One-time and abamectin treatments were used as control groups. The JEF-503 two-time application notably reduced root damage compared to single JEF-503 or abamectin treatment. In conclusion, JEF-503 offers a promising, residue-free, and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical agents for RKN management.
Putri Novadhea Salsabilla, So Eun Park, Ye Ram Im, In Soo Jeon, Yu Lim Park, Yu Jin Jeong, Ki Jung Kim, Ga Hyeon Song, Hanna Yang, Jong Cheol Kim, Jae Su Kim