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Abstract Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.) is a crucial warm-season vegetable crop cultivated extensively in India and tropical regions of Asia and Africa. Despite its medicinal significance and popularity in Indian cuisine, Ridge gourd faces numerous biotic stressors, with root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) being one of the most prevalent. This study aimed to investigate the post-penetration development of Meloidogyne incognita on Ridge gourd, assessing its pathogenicity and histopathological changes induced in the host plants. Under controlled laboratory and glasshouse conditions, experiments were conducted to observe nematode penetration and development stages, as well as the impact of nematode inoculum levels on Ridge gourd growth parameters and chlorophyll content. Histopathological studies were performed to visualize anatomical changes in infected roots. Results demonstrated swift penetration and developmental progression of M. incognita within Ridge gourd roots, culminating in reproductive stages. Pathogenicity assessments revealed a dose-dependent relationship between nematode density and plant damage, with higher inoculum levels resulting in significant reductions in growth parameters and chlorophyll content. Histopathological analyses unveiled extensive damage to root tissues, including gall formation and anatomical abnormalities. This study enhances the understanding of M. incognita interactions with Ridge gourd, emphasizing the need for effective management strategies to mitigate nematode-induced losses in agricultural productivity.
Basavaraj et al. (Mon,) studied this question.