The rhizosphere of mulberry (Morus alba L.) is a crucial zone of microbial activity, where root-knot nematodes (RKN), particularly Meloidogyne sp., pose severe agronomic challenges. This study aimed to isolate and characterize RKN species infesting mulberry roots in Kalyapura Village, Karnataka, India. The research was conducted in a six-year-old mulberry plantation (variety V1) with red sandy loam soil, following standard agronomic practices. Infested root samples were processed using the root incubation method and nematodes were examined under a stereo-zoom binocular microscope. Detailed morphological analysis, focusing on perineal patterns, identified the predominant species as Meloidogyne incognita. The identification was corroborated by comparison with established morphological descriptions. This infestation is associated with significant agronomic impacts, including stunted plant growth, leaf chlorosis, and root galls, leading to compromised water and nutrient uptake. Consequently, the quality and yield of mulberry leaves, essential for the sericulture industry, are adversely affected. The study underscores the necessity for integrated nematode management strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of RKN on mulberry cultivation and ensure the sustainability of silk production. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of RKN dynamics in mulberry ecosystems and the development of targeted control measures.

Mulberry, Root-knot nematode, Root incubation, Perineal pattern, Meloidogyne incognita.

The morphological studies and the perineal patterns of the nematode harbouring in mulberry confirmed that the major species involved in causing the root-knots is Meloidogyne incognita ((Kofoid and White) Chitwood. The study proves to be significant because the infestation of RKNs not only affects the growth and development of the crop but also affects the physiology ultimately resulting in inferior quality of foliage. Further, since mulberry leaf is the sole source of nutrition for silkworm, Bombyx mori L., the cocoon crop and quality of rawsilk are severely affected causing huge economic loss to the farmer.

Bharath K.B., Vinoda K.S., Kavitha T.R., Banuprakash K.G. and Shashidhar K.R. (2024). Isolation, Identification and Characterisation of Root-knot Nematode in Mulberry (Morus alba L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(6): 15-17.