Distribution and management of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) in North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

A survey was conducted to assess the incidence and distribution of Meloidogyne spp., in major tomato growing districts (Kewet and Efratana Gidim) of the North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia. Soil and root samples were collected from 30 tomato farms represents six different localities of the two districts. The results revealed that the highest incidence percentage (80%) of the Meloidogyne species from root samples were recorded from three farms of district Kewet and three farms of district Efratana Gidim. Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica were found infecting 70% of the surveyed tomato farms in mixture. Meloidogyne incognita was more prevalent than M. javanica from the surveyed tomato farms across the six localities. In a glasshouse experiment the intercropping of tomato with the antagonistic marigold followed by tomato with garlic intercropping was found highly reducing root galls, egg-mass and J2 per plant as compared to the inoculated tomato-sole cropping and with other antagonistic plants. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the antagonistic plants in the management of root-knot nematodes under farmer’s field conditions