Survey of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in Salikneta Farm and the effects of the level of macronutrients (N,P,K) and pH in the soil

Root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are common and destructive phytoparasite that can infect a wide variety of crops. Once infected, the host plant begins to exhibit signs of infection most notably the appearance of elongated swellings or galling in the roots. The severity of root galling can be traced via the availability of soil nutrients, and pH of the soil that can bring upon plant tolerance to infection. Plant samples (tomato, ginger, bell pepper, corn, eggplant, chili pepper, and sweet potato) that were used in the study was based upon the presence and accessibility of the crops at times of collection in Salikneta farm. Each sample was categorized with regards to the severity of galling was based on the rating scheme proposed by Zech, and was examined under a stereomicroscope the suspected galls to determine the presence of globose females. Soil samples were obtained from the point where the crop was uprooted, and underwent analysis of the level of the macronutrients (N,P,K) and pH of the soil per plant species using a soil test kit. Results showed that root-knot nematode infestation in the crops of Salikneta are quite few indicating good farm management. Moreover, the only crop that appeared to have root galling were the tomatoes that can be linked to the low level of nitrogen and phosphorus as compared to the other crops. On the other hand, the soil pH detected was within the range of 6.0-6.8, and is an acceptable range that would not encourage infestation by the root-knot nematodes. These data can be utilized in bringing about information with regards to the presence of root-knot nematodes in the farm, and proper management to be applied to crops like the tomato that showed a decreased level of macronutrients (N,P,K) in the soil