Biological control of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) by the fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia : a review

Abstract: Pochonia chlamydosporia, a facultative parasite of root-knot nematodes is able to provide varying levels of control on populations of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). Experiments in vitro, in greenhouse cultures and in the field have shown both promising and disappointing results. Various factors, such as temperature, host plant species, nematode species, fungal isolate, amount of inoculum, mode of application, time of inoculation and nematode population size affect the ability of the fungus to control. Combining the inoculation with other measures such as crop rotation and the use of resistant cultivars is likely to be needed if sufficient levels of control are to be obtained. Further research based on long-term experiments including combinations with other measures in an economical context is needed to make conclusions of the usefulness of this biological control agent.