Incidence and Integrated Management of Meloidogyne graminicola in Maize Fields of Central Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract Meloidogyne graminicola constrains maize production in Central Punjab, Pakistan. This study surveyed M. graminicola incidence and evaluated an integrated management (IDM) strategy. Field surveys revealed incidence up to 9.4% in hotspots. 'Sahiwal-Gold' was highly susceptible (122 females/root); 'VH-1898' showed resistance (47 females/root). The IDM approach, combining biocontrol agents (Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus megaterium, Purpureocillium lilacinum) with nematicides (fluopyram, cadusafos, cartap), reduced root juvenile nematodes by 85% compared to inoculated controls (p < 0.05). IDM significantly improved plant height (15% increase), biomass (19% increase), and 100-grain weight (25% increase) over inoculated controls, achieving yields approaching healthy control levels (e.g., 100-grain weight: 34.2 g vs. 36.2 g). Findings demonstrate IDM offers a highly effective strategy for managing M. graminicola and improving maize yields in infested regions.