Interaction of burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis - (Cobb-1893) Thorne 1949, and VA Mycorrhiza, Glomus fasciculatum (Thaxt.) gerd and trappe in banana (Musa acuminata colla.)1

Abstract

Interaction of VA mycorrhiza, Glomus fasciculatum and burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis on banana Cv. ‘Dwarf Cavendish’ was investigated. Length, fresh and dry weights of root were increased by mycorrhizal inoculation, while nemadode inoculation retarded the root growth. The plants which received mycorrhiza seven days prior to nematodes were able to offset the ill effect caused by the latter and had more vigorous roots even as against the uninoculated. plants. Although root colonization by mycorrhiza was reduced in plants inoculated with nematodes, the spore production was not adversely affected. Nematode number, both in roots and soil, on the other hand, was significantly lower in such a situation. Plants Inoculated with mycorrhiza had higher, N, P, K, Ca and Mg; reducing and total sugars; phenols and total amino acids in their roots.