Control of plant-parasitic nematodes by a nematicidal strain ofAspergillus niger.
An isolate ofAspergillus niger (designated PD-42) was evaluated in laboratory, greenhouse, and field trials for efficacy in controlling plant-parasitic nematodes. In greenhouse experiments, PD-42 drenches containing spores of PD-42 on oatmeal significantly reduced galling on tomato due to root-knot nematode as compared to untreated controls. In a one-half acre field experiment, PD-42 incorporated in seed coats was associated with significantly increased yield and decreased root-knot galling on pepper. In a second one-half acre field experiment, PD-42 drenches significantly reduced tomato and pepper root galling due toMeloidogyne incognita, and nonsignificant yield increases occurred. In each field experiment, treatment with PD-42 reducedRotylenchulus reniformis populations. The nematicidal components of theA. niger culture filtrates include citric acid, oxalic acid, and undetermined molecules larger than 8000 MW.
Department of Plant Pathology, University of Massachusetts, 01003, Amherst, Massachusetts.
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Zuckerman
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Matheny
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Acosta