The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) has identified a root-knot nematode in Guava cultivated in Dindigul region. The department of nematology has suggested farmers either to take preventive steps or destroy the affected plants.
“In Tamil Nadu, guava is cultivated on a large scale in and around Ayakudi of Dindigul district. Recently, TNAU observed young guava trees exhibiting symptoms of yellowing, shredding of leaves, drying of branches, reduced vigour and less productivity,” a press release issued by the university on Wednesday said. On examination of affected trees, it was found that root-knot nematode was the causal agent for the menace.
Studies by the nematology department identified the nematode as Meloidogyne enterolobii, a species of root knot nematode, encountered in India for the first time. “The nematode might have spread from other countries through saplings,” scientists of the nematology department stated.
The university has also suggested preventive measures.
“Applying a mixture of farm yard manure – 100kg, neem cake – 250g and nematode egg parasitic fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus – 25g and carbofuran 60 g/tree at an early stage of nematode infestation can help battle the disease,” TNAU has advised. This will help farmers prevent the impact on the yield.
Source: Times of India