Nematicidal potential of Carissa carandas seed extract against Meloidogyne incognita and identification of its bioactive compounds
摘要
Plant-parasitic nematodes, especially root-knot nematodes (RKNs) of the genus Meloidogyne, are major agricultural pests, causing crop yield losses of up to 80% in vegetables. Rapid reproduction intensifies soil infestation, and reliance on synthetic nematicides is declining due to environmental and health risks, necessitating sustainable alternatives. This study investigates the nematicidal potential of Carissa carandas L. methanolic seed extract, known for bioactive compounds, against Meloidogyne incognita juveniles (J2) and egg masses. In vitro assays at concentrations of 250, 500, and 1000 ppm demonstrated that the extract significantly increased J2 mortality and inhibited egg hatching in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. At 1000 ppm, the extract caused pronounced nematode anatomical disruptions, with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealing severe structural changes in egg masses. An in-vivo pot experiment assessed C. carandas seed powder against M. incognita on muskmelon cv. ‘Arkasiri’ in a glasshouse setting, comparing its efficacy with Fluopyram, a commercial nematicide. Both treatments, applied 15- and 30-days post-inoculation, markedly improved plant growth parameters and reduced nematode indicators such as root galls and soil nematode populations. At 30 days, C. carandas treatment achieved a 94.26% reduction in root galls, while Fluopyram achieved 96.78%, with the latter showing a 99.10% decrease in nematode populations. GC–MS analysis of the extract identified bioactive compounds, including fatty acids, likely responsible for nematicidal effects. These results indicate that C. carandas seed extract offers a promising, eco-friendly approach for managing M. incognita, supporting plant-based nematicidal development for integrated pest management.