Efficacy of Paecilomyces lilacinus (strain 251) for the control of root-knot nematodes.

The egg pathogenic fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus (strain 251), is a unique strain with a wide range of activity against the most important plant parasitic nematodes. Due to increased production capacity by solid state fermentation and a new water dispersible granule (WDG) formulation, this biological nematicide may be used in an integrated approach to control plant parasitic nematodes. Dose response experiments were conducted with the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita on tomatoes using the new WDG formulation. The results revealed a clear correlation between rate applied and the degree of control concerning the reduction in damage to the root and multiplication of the nematode. Best control was achieved by applying the biological nematicide at rates of 2 to 4 times 10(9) conidia per plant as a soil treatment one week before planting. Monitoring the P. lilacinus population in the rhizosphere showed a decline after 2 to 3 month which can lead to insufficient control over a full growing season. Repeated application to maintain the antagonist population at a sufficient level could be used to secure long term control of root-knot nematodes.