26. Influence of the rhizobacterium Bacillus subtilis on the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne arenaria

Two local strains of Bacillus subtilis (A1 and B1) were evaluated for their nematicidal effects on the root—knot nematode Meloidogyne arenaria. In laboratory experiment exposure of egg masses of M. arenaria to the bacterial strains resulted in reduced hatching of second stage juveniles (J2). J2 in contact with the strains of B. subtilis and their metabolites showed disorientation and convulsive movement. After their placement in fresh water many juveniles retrieved their normal movement. The highest mortality of J2 was observed at dosage of 10⁸ and 10⁹ cells ml^-1 of A1 and B1 after 24 h exposure. In pot experiments strain A1 was ineffective but strain B1 prevented invasion of J2 of M. arenaria into tomato roots and affect nematode development in galls.