Effect of the nematode biocide Dbx-1003 in controlling citrus nematode infecting Mandarin, and interrelationship with the co-inhabitant fungi.

In a field experiment, the nematode-biocide, Dbx-1003, was evaluated against the citrus nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans infecting Mandarin, Citrus reticulata, Dbx-1003 20% G., was applied in October 2008 at the rate 1/2 kg/tree, and root and soil samples were collected monthly until the next October, 2009. Successive treatment of the same biocide was added in May 2009. For the comparison, Vydate 24% L, was applied as well as non-treated check trees were left. Data revealed that the biocide treatment greatly affected the citrus nematode numbers both in soil and roots, in comparing with those of Vydate or induced by Dbx-1003 was 97% and 70%; respectively in soil and roots. Rates of reproduction increase of the citrus nematode also reached 3% and 30% in both soil and roots; respectively. Vydate treatment resulted in a relatively lesser percentages. Growth of the concomitant fungus, Trichoderma sp. was increased specially in the last samples of October 2009, however those of fungi; Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium sp. and Rhizopus sp. were reduced, due to Dbx-1003 treatment. Aspergillus niger and Penicillium sp. were not affected by the presence of the biocide. Vydate did not affect the co-inhabitant fungi to a great extent.