Infestation, distribution pattern and identity of root-knot nematodes associated with vegetable crops in the districts of meerut division in Uttar Pradesh, India

A case study undertaken to determine the infestation, and the distribution pattern and identity of root-knot nematodes associated with vegetable crops in the districts of Meerut division in Uttar Pradesh (India) showed that root-knot disease incidence in the area was fairly high. In all the five districts about 50% fields were infested and above 36% root-samples of vegetables from the districts were infected with root-knot nematodes. Intensity of the disease in different localities of the districts and on different vegetables showed wide variations. Root-gall index/egg mass index ranged from 2.5/0.5. Cucumber and eggplant were most affected crops followed by okra, tomato and pepper. Cauliflower and cabbage were less affected. M. incognita, M. javanica and M. arenaria were identified to be present in the area associated with the vegetables. The species were found either singly or in mixed populations. M. incognita showed highest frequency (75.6%) and was dominant species in the area. M. javanica (33.1%) was second most frequent species followed by M. arenaria (25.7%).