Application of antagonistic fungi to suppress the Meloidogyne incognita and promote growth of Vegetables

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I. Mitu, F. M. Aminuzzaman, T. Kibria, J. Shammi, A. A. Faria, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 12 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract The root-knot nematode (RKNs) Meloidogyne incognita , are a significant biotic factor that negatively impacted both the yield and quality of vegetables. The nematophagous fungus, Purpureocillium lilacinum , is widely regarded as a highly effective biocontrol agent (BCA) for RKNs. To investigated the nematicidal efficacy of P. lilacinum against eggs and second-stage juveniles of M. incognita at varying application durations, this investigation was carried out at the invitro settings of the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The results also revealed that P. lilacinum effectively reduced the survival rates of M. incognita eggs and juveniles in an application time dependent manner. Microscopic examination displayed that the fungi directly invaded the eggs and made contact with the juveniles, demonstrated its parasitic nature against M. incognita . We also found that P. lilacinum effectively suppressed nematode populations and reduced the incidence of root galls. Notably, the application of P. lilacinum significantly stimulated plant growth metrics and biomass, even in the presence of nematode infections. Our research findings suggest that P. lilacinum can be employed as a beneficial biocontrol agent to manage RKNs and to also enhance the development of the vegetables. Biological Control Meloidogyne Incognita Root Gall Purpureocillium lilacinum Nematophagaous Fungi Vegetables Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 1 Introduction Global agricultural production is confronted by a multitude of challenges stemming from both aerial and subterranean influences. Subterranean symptoms are particularly challenging to manage because they are concealed from direct observation, making it difficult to detect and address them promptly. RKNs belonging to the Tylenchida order within the Nematoda phylum, are known for their extensive host range, infecting over 3000 plant species, including numerous fruits and vegetables. To date, more than 100 species of these nematodes have been identified by Gohar et al. [ 1 ]; Khan et al. [ 2 ]; Khan and Tanaka [ 3 ]. RKNs are regarded as one of the top five phytopathogens [ 4 ]. The RKN genus ranks as the tenth most common type of plant-parasitic nematode worldwide, according to El Aimani et al. [ 5 ]. Four primary Meloidogyne species, namely M. incognita , M. javanica , M. arenaria , and M. hapla are considered highly pathogenic [ 2 , 6 ]. These are obligate in nature and infest subterranean plant tissues, particularly the underground root system. They are naturally polyphagous, cosmopolitan and engage with many other phytopathogens that enhance plants mortality [ 4 ]. RKNs collectively account for nearly 90% of global crop losses, rendering plants more vulnerable to secondary soil-borne different pathogens [ 7 , 6 ]. They have been globally recognized as significant contributors to yield reduction in various agricultural crops. Their capacity to infect a wide range of crop plants has made them a persistent threat to agricultural productivity [ 8 ]. They pose a significant global agricultural threat, causing annual crop losses estimated at over $ 157 billion [ 9 – 11 ]. Functionally, they start infection with root incursion by J2 hatched from soil eggs, puncturing cell wall with stylet. They travel in the root intercellular spaces, establishing feeding sites in giant cells due to host plant defense system activation [ 12 ]. At their feeding sites, these nematodes induce the formation of enlarged cells, often referred to as galls or knots [ 13 ]. After that RKNs infestation led to yellowing of leaves, defoliation, stunted growth, and plant wilting.They can rapidly complete their life cycles in susceptible crops like vegetables. This results rapid multiplication of their population during the plant’s maturity stage. So, the infected plants frequently die before reaching full maturity [ 14 ]. The control of RKNs poses a significant global challenge for crop growers. Various agricultural techniques have been adopted to combat RKNs [ 15 ] those are mainly based on chemical nematicides. The urgent need for sustainable and environmentally friendly RKNs control strategies is underscored by the limitations of current nematicides, which are often toxic to ecology and human health, prone to resistance, and lack long-term efficacy [ 16 , 17 ]. To mitigate these negative consequences, it is imperious to discover alternate disease management strategies that minimize reliance on synthetic chemicals [ 3 , 18 ]. In recent years, biological control has been extensively investigated and implemented to manage plant diseases caused by PPNs (Plant Parasitic Nematodes) [ 19 , 20 ]. BCAs have emerged as a preferred method for managing parasitic nematodes in agriculture. These agents offer a safer, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pest control measures [ 21 ]. Nematophagous type fungi are natural hunters that can infect and kill nematodes [ 22 ] Purpureocillium lilacinum , a nematophagous fungi previously classified as Paecilomyces lilacinus , emerges as a promising BCA for controlling nematode populations in soil. P. lilacinum is a fungal species belonging to the Ophiocordycipitaceae family within the Ascomycota phylum. It is classified under the Sordariomycetes class and the Hypocreales order [ 23 ]. El-Marzoky et al. [ 24 ] and Isaac et al. [ 25 ] have demonstrated its efficacy in suppressing nematode activity. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has authorized the use of P. lilacinum as a BCA against nematodes in vegetables [ 26 ]. Nematicide NF produced from P. lilacinum demonstrates potential efficacy against PPNs [ 24 , 25 , 27 ]. Its widespread distribution and exceptional biological control capabilities make it a promising candidate for sustainable PPN management. This beneficial fungus employs multiple mechanisms, either individually or in combination with other approaches, to lessen nematode proliferation [ 28 ]. Previous studies have validated its effectiveness in suppressing various PPN species, including cyst-forming nematodes ( Heterodera and Globodera ) and root-knot nematodes ( Meloidogyne ) [ 29 ]. This organism employs a multi-faceted approach to suppress nematode populations, including enzymatic degradation of nematode cuticles [ 30 , 31 ] production of toxic compounds [ 32 ], and the secretion of antimicrobial agents [ 33 , 34 ]. Additionally, it exhibits aggressive colonization strategies, competing for resources and directly parasitizing nematode eggs [ 14 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. Furthermore, this organism positively impacts plant health by promoting growth and inducing plant defense responses [ 38 , 39 ]. The P. lilacinum has showed its potentiality for effectively controlling various PPNs, including RKNs, when used in integrated pest management strategies. A widespread range of cultivated plants, mostly vegetables are susceptible to RKNs infections [ 40 ] They are the most common and cosmopolitan type pests that negatively impact both the quantity as well as quality of tomatoes [ 41 , 42 ], egg plant [ 4 , 43 – 45 ] and cucumber [ 46 , 47 ]. RKN management strategies are significantly more complex compared to other plant pathogens due to the subterranean lifestyle of nematodes. These microscopic organisms often remain hidden within the soil and plant roots, making them difficult to detect by producers. Chemical management of RKNs is unfeasible due of its inadequate penetration into the ovum of RKNs, rapid leaching into ground water, and quickly degradation in environment. Additionally, the high price of commercial nematicides makes them economically expensive for farmers to apply in RKN control management [ 4 ]. Given the importance of biological control agents to manage RKNs, this study evaluated the antagonistic potentiality of Purpureocillium lilacinum fungi against Meloidogyne incognita on three important vegetable (tomato, eggplant, and cucumber) crops. 2 Materials and Methods 2.1 Location and experimental environments This investigation was carried out at the laboratory and shade house of the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Most of the investigated plants were kept in the shade house, where the temperature was 30 ± 2 o C and 23 ± 2 o C during the day and night respectively with an average temperature of 28 ± 2 o C. 2.2 Experimental Materials We used three different vegetables namely brinjal cv. Singnath and Khotkhotia, tomato cv. BARI Tomato 14, and cucumber cv. Kashinda. We collected the brinjal and tomato seeds from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Gazipur, Bangladesh. Lalteer, seed company, Bangladesh provided the seeds of Cucumber cv. Kashinda. 2.3 Culture and application of Paecilomyces lilacinus We cultured and subculture P. lilacinus on the medium of Potato Drextose Agar (PDA) for 15 days. The fungus pure culture was collected from the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Once the sporulation process was completed (15 days), we sterilized the culture plates and placed them into the laminar airflow chamber. Next, we added sterile water and used a sterile brush to scrape away the spore masses. The harvested spores were filtered through sterilised cheesecloth. Then, we harvested the spore from each fungus plate more than twice. The spore suspension was collected, and spores were counted with a hemocytometer and adjusted to a concentration of 10×107 spores mL − 1 solution. After that, the inoculation was done at 36×107 spores per plant in each pot with a micropipette. We thoroughly mixed the spores with the soil during the setup of the final experiment while the plants were transplanted (Fig. 1 ). 2.4 Culture of Meloidogyne incognita, inoculum preparation and inoculation The targeted RKN species Meloidogyne incognita was cultured and maintained in susceptible tomato plants grown in plastic pots containing sterilised soil for two months. We handpicked egg masses from the nematode cultured, sterilised them with NaOCl for 1 min. They were then rinsed three times with water, and inoculated them into young tomato seedlings. Subsequent subcultures were initiated by infecting tomato seedlings with egg masses. Mature egg masses of M. incognita were collected from severely galled roots of tomatoes. Egg masses were counted using a compound microscope. Three holes, each five centimetres deep, were dug around the plants with a metal rod. Twenty egg masses, containing approximately 10,000 eggs each, were placed in these holes. The holes were then covered with soil to prevent them from drying out. A few days after the egg masses were placed in the holes, the pots were carefully watered to prevent the nematodes from being lost through leaching or excessive drying (Fig. 2 ). 2.5 Extraction of nematode from soil and counting of juveniles We used the Whitehead and Hemming tray method [ 48 ] to extract nematodes from soil. Soil samples of 100 grams each were prepared by thoroughly mixing pot soil. These samples were then placed on a sieve submerged in a bowl of water. Three layers of kitchen tissue paper were used to line the upper portion of the sieve. Following a 5-day incubation period, the nematode suspension was transferred to a beaker and allowed to settle overnight. Excess water was subsequently decanted, and a 5 mL aliquot was taken for enumeration in a counting chamber. We used a compound microscope for the juvenile's counting. 2.6 Egg masses (%) colonization by Paecilomyces lilacinus Egg masses were harvested from the roots of brinjal, tomato, and cucumber plants, following the experimental protocol. These masses were rinsed thoroughly with water, sterilized using a Clorox solution, and then transferred to petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. We collected five egg masses/root randomly, resulting in 40 egg masses per treatment. The presence of P. lilacinus with colonized egg masses was confirmed after five days of incubation. Slides were prepared from cultures grown on PDA to verify the association between the fungus and the egg masses. 2.7 Soil colonization by Paecilomyces lilacinus (CFUg − 1 soil) Soil samples of 1 gram were taken from the root zone of each treatment following plant harvest. The spore count (colony-forming units per gram of soil) was quantified using the soil dilution plate technique. 2.8 Collection and counting of egg mass We collected heavily galled type roots from the studied plant samples and appropriately washed them with the help of water. To prevent the egg mass from being washed away, the roots were carefully immersed in a Phloxine-B solution (2 mgL − 1 ) for 15 minutes [ 49 ]. Afterwards, we soaked the collected root in water by placing it in tissue paper for a period of one minute. A sterile microscope slide was prepared. Three droplets of glycerin were applied to the slide. Then, using fine forceps, we collected egg masses from the collected root, placed them on the slide, and used the bottom side of the needle to smash them. After placing the cover slip, we examined the slide under a microscope and counted the egg masses (Fig. 3 ). 2.9 Microscopic evaluation of the fungi effect on nematode eggs and juveniles The P. lilacinum was cultured on PDA medium supplemented with 10 mg L − 1 streptomycin. The petri dish contained the inoculated medium was incubated at 25 ± 2°C for a period of 10 days. One hundred surface-sterilized eggs of M. incognita were introduced onto each petri dish. The eggs were disinfected with a 2% sodium hypochlorite solution for 5 minutes prior to placement. Following a 10-day incubation period, the eggs were stained with cotton blue dye to facilitate visualization. The rate of egg parasitism was then determined by microscopic examination, involving a count of both parasitized and unparasitized eggs. The eggs were deemed dead if they were directly penetrated by fungal hyphae or if their contents had disintegrated [ 50 ]. However, eggs with live juveniles or those that hatched juveniles were considered viable (Fig. 3 ). 2.10 Data Collection Following a two-month post-transplantation period, the plants were collected, and their characteristics were documented. We determined the height of each plant by measuring the distance from its base to the tip of the youngest leaf before harvesting. Measurements were taken using a ruler, with the results recorded in centimetres. The roots were extracted from the soil using an anti-cutter. After carefully removing any remaining soil, the roots were washed gently and then stored in individual polybags. The root length was measured from the growing point to the longest lateral root tip in centimetres and recorded the fresh weight in grams. At this moment gall index was taken following the scale described in Table 1 . Shoots and roots were dried in the sun for three days, followed by 4–6 hours in a dryer at 70°C. After drying, dry weight (g) was recorded. Table 1 Root galls were indexed on a 0–10 scale of Bridge and Page (1980) Scales Specification 0 No galls 1 Few small galls, difficult to find 2 Small gall only, clearly visible, main root clean 3 Some larger galls visible, main root clean 4 Larger galls predominant but main root clean 5 50% of the roots infected, galling on some main roots, reduced root system 6 Galling on main roots 7 Majority of the main roots galled 8 All main roots including tap roots galled, few clean roots visible 9 All roots severely galled, plants usually dying 10 All roots severely galled, no root system 2.10 Analysis of data Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. One-way ANOVA was conducted to assess differences among treatment means. Duncan's multiple comparison test was subsequently applied to identify specific pairwise differences where significance was observed at the (P ≥ 0.01) level. 3 Results 3.1 Effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus application time on brinjal plant The result showed that the M. incognita suppressed the growth-related traits of brinjal plants (P ≥ 0.01) (Tables 2 and 4 ). Biocontrol agent application significantly enhanced plant growth compared to nematode inoculation alone. The longest shoot was recorded from PL P +M P (45.35 and 25.49 cm for Singnath and Khotkhotia, respectively) for both the variety statistically alike to PL P, PL P M 7DAP, and blank control. The other traits, like shoot fresh weight (34.50 and 10.84 g), shoot dry weight (7.10 and 4.18 g), longest root (25.73 and 15.81 cm), root fresh weight (21.60 and 12.96 g) and root dry weight (4.56 and 10.4 g) was recorded greater in PL P treatment in Singnath and Khotkhotia variety respectively, due to the biocontrol agents’ magnanimous effect on plant growth. Similarly, blank treatment or nontreated group gave the alike result in most of the cases for both the varieties (Fig. 4 A and 4 B). Table 2 Effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus application time on the growth parameters of brinjal cv. singnath Treatments Shoot length (cm) Shoot weight (g) Root length (cm) Root weight (g) Fresh weight (g) Dry weight (g) Fresh weight (g) Dry weight (g) BC 37.75bc 26.7abc 6.83a 21.19abc 17.02ab 9.11ab M P 34.1c 23.79c 3.95b 19.16bc 10.60b 7.55ab PL P 43.47ab 34.50a 7.10a 25.7a 21.60a 10.4a PL P +M P 45.35a 32.56ab 6.58a 23.02ab 20.35a 9.90ab M P PL 7DAP 38.34bc 28.60abc 3.96b 15.44c 18.35ab 7.33b PL P M 7DAP 40.79abc 34.00ab 6.11a 23.51ab 21.44a 9.55ab PL 7DBP M P 34.45c 26.06bc 3.78b 16.73c 16.46ab 7.57ab LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 0.01) 6.45 5.79 1.61 5.75 8.05 1.89 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. Table 4 Effect of Paecilomyces lilaceous application time on the growth parameters of brinjal cv. Khotkhotia Treatments Shoot Length (cm) Shoot weight (g) Root length (cm) Root Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) BC 22.92ab 9.59a 3.09bc 14.56ab 10.65a 4.18a M P 18.10b 4.01b 1.24e 10.81c 4.13b 0.76b PL P 23.4ab 10.8a 4.18a 15.81a 12.96a 4.56a PL P + M P 25.49a 10.20a 3.78ab 14.75ab 11.39a 4.25a M P PL 7DAP 18.32b 4.59b 2.24cd 13.66ab 6.25b 1.10b PL P M 7DAP 25.98a 10.31a 3.34ab 15.25ab 12.13a 4.26a PL 7DBP M P 19.71b 4.10 b 1.60de 12.74bc 4.88b 1.36b LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 10) 5.11 2.29 0.93 2.59 2.69 1.18 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. However, the plants treated with biocontrol agent on different days improve the studied traits compared to single inoculation of M. incognita at planting (Fig. 5 A and 5 B for Singnath and Khokhotia respectively). RKNs induced the formation of large and complex root galls in sole nematode-treated group. The different treatments where P. lilacinus applied at different time demonstrated a significant suppression of the multiplication of nematode in comparison to the Meloidogyne incognita treated plants (Tables 3 and 5 ). The gall index (6.63 and 5.25), number of egg mass root − 1 (832.5 and 78.75), number of eggs/egg mass (317.8 and 305.6), number of J2 g − 1 soil (737.5 and 17.50) and reduction factor (71.58 and 3.89) was recorded top in Singnath and Khotkhotia, respectively where the plants inoculated only with M. incognita at planting (Mp). Besides, the PLp treatment showed an extensive reduction of gall formation and destruction of nematode proliferation for the above-mentioned indices compared to solitary nematode-treated plants. Nontreated or blank control treatment also gave the same result. Other treatments showed variable result (Fig. 6 A- 5 B and 7 A- 6 B for Singnath and Khokhotia, respectively). Table 3 Effect of P. lilacinus application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of Meloidogyne incognita on brinjal cv. Singnath Treatments Gall Index (0–10 scale) Number of egg masses/root Number of eggs/Egg mass Number of J 2 g − 1 soil Reproduction Factor BC 0.00c 0.00c 0.00d 0.00d 0.00d M P 6.63a 832.5a 317.8a 737.5a 71.58a PL P 0.00c 0.00c 0.00d 0.00d 0.00d PL P + M P 1.50bc 97.50bc 99.38c 105.6d 9.81d M P PL 7DAP 3.13b 270.8b 295.9ab 578.8b 53.56b PL 7DAP M P 1.63bc 168.8bc 103.1 c 90.25d 9.76cd PL 7DBP M P 1.8b 204.6b 214.6 b 280.1c 27.08c LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 0.01) 1.69 169.8 93.88 156.0 16.94 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. Table 5 Effect of P. lilacinus application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of Meloidogyne incognita on brinjal cultivar Khotkhotia Treatments Gall Index (0–10 scale) Number of egg masses/root Number of eggs/egg mass Number of J 2 /g soil Reproduction factor BC 0.00d 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c M P 5.25a 78.75a 305.6a 17.50a 3.89a PL P 0.00d 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c M P + PL P 0.63d 5.63c 121.9b 3.00c 0.42c M P PL 7DAP 2.38c 40.00b 213.1ab 11.29b 1.97b PL P M 7DAP 0.63d 7.75c 183.8b 3.18c 0.48c PL 7DBP M P 3.63b 47.50b 201.3ab 10.94b 2.07b LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 10) 1.04 22.34 101.3 3.60 0.85 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. 3.2 Effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus application time on tomato plant Our findings displayed that the RKN ( M. incognita) negatively impacted the growth parameters of tomato plants (P ≥ 0.01) (Table 6 ). The application of bioagents significantly enhanced plant growth compared to the sole inoculation of nematode. The highest shoot length (24.48 cm), shoot fresh weight (10.09 g), shoot dry weight (1.50 g), root length (10.09 cm), root fresh weight (3.29 g) and root dry weight (1.09 g) was recorded in PL P +M P treatment statistically alike to PL P, and blank control. The sole nematode-treated tomato plants showed dwarf stature with reduced shoot and root size compared to other treatments because of its antagonistic relation with the tomato plants (Fig. 8 B). Table 6 Effect of Paecilomyces lilaceous application time on the growth parameters of BARI Tomato 14 Treatments Shoot Length (cm) Shoot weight (g) Root length (cm) Root Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) BC 23.42ab 7.73abc 1.24a 7.73abc 2.66a 0.53bc M P 16.67d 5.09c 0.49b 5.09c 0.65c 0.23c PL P 24.11a 8.69ab 1.43a 8.69ab 2.88a 0.63b PL P + M P 24.48a 10.09a 1.50a 10.09a 3.29a 1.09a M P PL 7DAP 15.60d 6.23bc 0.53b 6.23bc 0.89bc 0.30bc PL P M 7DAP 20.31bc 8.36ab 1.41a 8.36ab 3.04a 1.20a PL 7DBP M P 17.91cd 7.63abc 0.48b 7.63abc 1.46b 0.28bc LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 10) 3.13 2.45 0.45 2.45 0.67 0.33 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. Tomato plants co-inoculated with P. lilacinus exhibited enhanced growth compared to those inoculated solely with M. incognita during planting. RKN significantly induced the development of substantial and intricate root galls in the sole nematode-treated group (Fig. 9 A). The various treatments involving the application of P. lilacinus at different time points exhibited a notable reduction in nematode populations within tomato plants when compared to the Meloidogyne incognita control group (Table 7 ). The maximum gall index (5.63), number of egg mass root − 1 (43.13), number of eggs/egg mass (316.9), number of J2 g − 1 soil (438.8) and reduction factor (36.46) were recorded in the plants inoculated only with Meloidogyne incognita during planting (Mp). Besides, the application of P. lilacinus at the time of planting and blank control treated group recorded zero infection for the above-mentioned indices (Fig. 10 A and 10 B). Table 7 Effect of P. lilacinus application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of Meloidogyne incognita in BARI Tomato 14 Treatments Gall Index (0–10 scale) Number of egg masses/ Root Number of eggs/egg mass Number of J 2 /g soil Reproduction factor BC 0.00d 0.00b 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c M P 5.63a 43.13a 316.9a 438.8a 36.46a PL P 0.00d 0.00b 0.00c 0.00c 0.00c M P + PL P 0.50cd 3.25b 62.50c 104.4c 8.41c M P PL 7DAP 2.38b 9.25b 251.9a 349.4a 28.21a PL P M 7DAP 0.25d 1.00b 28.75c 71.88c 5.77c PL 7DBP M P 1.38bc 6.38b 155.0b 235.6b 18.87b LSD(P \(\:\ge\:\) 10) 1.06 9.80 74.61 112.0 9.02 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. 3.3 Effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus application time on cucumber plant The results found that M. incognita negatively impacted the growth parameters of cucumber plants (P ≥ 0.01) (Table 8 ). P. lilacinus application significantly boosted the plant growth compared nematode treated plants. PLp + Mp treatment exhibited shoot and root growth parameters comparable to PLpP and the blank control, reaching maximum values of 76.11 cm, 25.84 g, 12.27 g, 30.13 cm, 14.40 g, and 7.58 g, respectively, for shoot length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root length, root fresh weight, and root dry weight. Cucumber plants treated solely with nematodes exhibited a stunted growth pattern, characterized by reduced shoot and root size. This adverse effect is likely attributed to an antagonistic interaction between the nematodes and the host plants (Fig. 8 C). Table 8 Effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus application time of the growth parameters of cucumber cv. Kashinda Treatments Shoot Length (cm) Shoot weight (g) Root length (cm) Root Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) Fresh Weight (g) Dry Weight (g) BC 61.71a 22.42a 10.86a 26.50b 12.13b 6.13b M P 28.42b 7.21c 2.88b 12.44d 3.99d 1.43e PL P 69.88a 24.23a 11.73a 27.31ab 15.94a 6.49b M P + PL P 76.11a 25.84a 12.27a 30.13a 14.40a 7.58a M P PL 7DAP 36.84b 9.88bc 5.45b 13.48d 6.61c 2.59d PL P M 7DAP 77.40a 25.71a 12.57a 29.26ab 15.27a 8.00a PL 7DBP M P 34.28b 13.14b 5.43b 20.33c 7.13 c 3.63c LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) .10) 17.15 4.18 2.69 3.15 1.95 0.96 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of M. incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. In contrast to the negative impact of individual M. incognita inoculation on cucumber plant growth, the application of P. lilacinus significantly enhances the development of these plants. RKN significantly stimulated the development of substantial and intricate root galls in the sole nematode-treated group (Fig. 9 B). The various treatments involving P. lilacinus , administered at distinct time points, exhibited a pronounced reduction in nematode proliferation within cucumber plants when compared to those solely exposed to Meloidogyne incognita (Table 9 ). Plants inoculated solely with Meloidogyne incognita at planting (Mp) exhibited the highest gall index (6.50), number of egg masses per root (109.4), number of eggs per egg mass (212.5), number of juvenile nematodes per gram of soil (16.88), and a reduction factor of 3.34. e MpPL 7DAP -treated plants sometimes gave statistically similar results to negative control. In contrast, the groups treated with P. lilacinus at planting and the untreated control exhibited no observable infections for any of the aforementioned parameters (Fig. 11 A and 11 B). Table 9 Effect of P. lilacinus application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of Meloidogyne incognita in cucumber cultivar Kashinda Treatments Gall Index (0–10 scale) Number of egg masses/root Number of eggs/egg mass Number of J 2 /g soil Reproduction factor BC 0.00d 0.00d 0.00b 0.00c 0.00c M P 6.50a 109.4a 212.5a 16.88a 3.34a PL P 0.00d 0.00d 0.00b 0.00c 0.00c M P + PL P 1.25cd 28.13cd 75.00b 3.25c 0.72c M P PL 7DAP 3.88b 78.75ab 184.1a 13.38ab 2.70ab PL P M 7DAP 1.75c 24.38cd 78.75b 3.00c 0.63c PL 7DBP M P 3.38b 50.63bc 161.0a 10.5b 1.87b LSD (P \(\:\ge\:\) 10) 1.43 37.32 78.52 3.53 0.89 BC = Blank control (Without any inoculation), M P = Inoculation of Meloidogyne incognita at planting, PL P = Application of P. lilacinus at planting, PL P + M P = Application of P. lilacinus and inoculation of M. incognita simultaneously at planting, M P PL 7DAP =Inoculation of M. incognita at planting and P. lilacinus at 7 days after planting, PL P M 7DAP = Application of P. lilacinus at planting and M. incognita at 7 days after planting, PL 7DBP M P = Application of P. lilacinus at 7 days before planting and inoculation of M. incognita at planting. 4 Discussion PPNs significantly reduce the amount and quality of crop yield leading to financial loss in the global agricultural sector [ 51 ]. The use BCAs becoming significant in integrated pest management in different crop production strategy [ 52 – 54 ]. The detrimental effects of pesticides on human and animal health with the environment have spurred a growing demand for sustainable, cost-effective, and agronomically practicable alternatives for eco-friendly crop production [ 55 ]. Researchers are actively investigating biocontrol agents that are environmentally friendly and harmless to humans as potential alternatives to conventional pesticides [ 56 – 58 ]. P. lilacinum is gaining prominence as biocontrol agent among farmers due to its lower cost and reduced environmental impact compared to synthetic nematicides [ 59 – 62 ]. Our research explored the effectiveness of P. lilacinum fungus as a BCA for safeguarding plants from PPNs. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of information concerning its efficacy against RKN in various plants, such as brinjal, tomato, and cucumber. P. lilacinum exhibits a versatile lifestyle, thriving as a soil saprobe, plant endophyte, and nematode pathogen. Initially characterized as a nematode egg parasite, subsequent research has demonstrated its ability to infect all life stages of RKNs [ 63 , 67 ]. BCAs exert direct and also indirect effects on nematode populations. They directly produce nematicidal compounds [ 67 , 68 ] and enzymes like chitinases [ 69 ] and proteases [ 23 ]. Key metabolites with nematicidal properties like different organic acid (linoleic acid, oxalic acid acetic acid, and chaetoglobosin) [ 70 ]. Additionally, BCAs can colonize plant roots [ 71 – 74 ] and parasitize nematode eggs [ 75 – 77 ]. Indirectly, they prevent nematode population by inducing plant defense responses and enhance plant resistance [ 78 , 79 ]. Our findings revealed that the biocontrol agent's ( P. lilacinum ) efficacy in enhancing plant growth and mitigating disease severity is likely attributed to its rapid proliferation and colonization within the soil rhizosphere. This early establishment may have prevented nematode infection or the spread of other soil-borne fungi, thereby safeguard the plants during its initial stages of development. The precise physiological mechanisms by which biocontrol agents, particularly fungi, enhance plant growth parameters remain obscure. Physiology the biocontrol agents i.e., fungi may alter the cell wall composition and the activate plant defense systems [ 80 , 81 ]. Additionally, increased nutrient uptake, disease suppression, and enhanced mineral uptake by mineral solubilization or the synthesis of plant hormones may also contribute to the observed growth benefits when employing biocontrol agents [ 82 , 85 ]. These findings align with those of [ 71 , 86 , 87 ], who also observed positive effects of P. lilacinum on plant health. Kalele et al. [ 88 ] observed that both pre-and post-planting applications of P. lilacinum effectively reduced nematode populations and root galling in cucumber and tomato. Ali et al. [ 67 ] and Issac et al. [ 25 ] recorded similar result for tomato and Patil et al. [ 65 ] for cucumber. The study by Khan and Tanaka [ 3 ] and Saleh et al. [ 66 ] found that the fungus P. lilacinum could potentially serve as a growth enhancer for plants and a biological agent to control root-knot nematodes, thereby mitigating diseases in eggplants. However, P. lilacinum exhibited a stronger anti-nematode effect when applied before planting compared to after infection. These findings support the potential of P. lilacinum as a biological control agent for M. incognita . Our results align with those of Sarven et al. [ 64 ] who reported a significant decrease in gall index (up to 72%) and egg masses (up to 84%) of M. incognita in brinjal plants treated with P. lilacinum . On the contrary, nematode treatment resulted in a more significant reduction in plant growth compared to other treatments. This can be due to the rapid colonization of plant roots by a larger population of juvenile nematodes, leading to the subsequent development of adult female M. incognita . The formation of abnormal giant cells and the disruption of xylem vessel development led to impaired plant physiological processes. These included the transport of water with different nutrients from the root zones and influence the nutrient uptake pathways, photosynthesis systems, and increased susceptibility to secondary pathogen infections [ 89 – 91 ]. The antagonistic effects of the fungus P. lilacinum on the Meloidogyne spp . have been the subject of extensive research for several decades by numerous scholars [ 50 , 67 , 78 , 92 – 94 ]. . We also observed that P. lilacinum effectively suppresses the targeted RKN. Our result revealed that all treatments significantly reduced the gall formation, egg production, and multiplication of nematode populations compared with negative control or only RKN treated plants. But the application of P. lilacinum during planting significantly reduced the M. incognita infection and its proliferation. Application of P. lilacinus to the soil earlier and at the time of transplanting of tomato seedlings reduced Meloidogyne spp. egg masses over 80%. Our results are aligning with the earlier study done by [ 24 , 37 , 86 , 95 , 96 ] with their studies with P. lilacinus . Swarnakumari and Kalaiarasan [ 36 ] observed that fungal mycelium began to adhere to the egg surface within 24 hours of inoculation. Fungal colonization of the eggshell of nematode commenced with the development of appressoria on the second day. Subsequent fungal growth was observed on the egg surface 72 hours post-inoculation with conidia. Complete fungal growth was observed in the eggs within four days of inoculation [ 4 ]. The parasitic activity of P. lilacinum on nematode eggs and all life stages can lead to a decrease in the nematode population [ 2 , 59 ]. The fungi spores can attach to the outer layer of second-stage juvenile root-knot nematodes as they move through the soil. These spores invade the root knot nematode's outer layer (cuticle) and subsequently engulf the juvenile nematodes [ 56 ]. Additionally, the fungal hyphae can penetrate the nematode's body through natural openings, such as the anus and vulva. P. lilacinum feeds on and ultimately kills nematodes by consuming their internal contents [ 64 ]. Besides, the extent to which nematodes are suppressed by fungi, as evidenced by reduced gall formation and reproductive capacity, varies across different organisms as well as environmental factors [ 97 ]. The incidence of P. lilacinum in the root zone can potentially mitigate the population of nematode juveniles by colonizing the roots and forming a protective barrier against root-knot nematode invasion [ 99 , 100 ]. Saprophytic fungi can trigger systemic resistance in plants by stimulating the production of defense enzymes like peroxidase (PO) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) [ 101 , 102 ]. Research by El-Deriny [ 103 ] has shown that strains of biocontrol agents can increase the activity of either PPO or PO in various plant species. The genomic analysis of P. lilacinum has identified a distinctive repertoire of enzymes and molecules that likely contribute to its parasitic capabilities against M. incognita [ 104 , 105 ]. Notably, the fungus exhibits a significantly higher abundance of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), proteases, secondary metabolites, and pathogenesis-related genes compared to other fungi [ 106 , 107 ]. These molecular mechanisms may enable the fungus to effectively penetrate, infect, and eventually destroy the nematode [ 107 – 109 ] A number of secondary metabolites produced by fungi that prey on nematodes have been shown to kill or attract nematodes, as well as influence the development of structures used for reproduction or trapping [ 74 , 110 , 111 ]. Additionally, fungal enzymes called chitinases have been found to break the eggshells of nematodes in laboratory experiments, indicating their ability to infect these parasites [ 112 – 114 ]. A bionematicide namely Bio-nematon, produced from the fungi P. lilacinus , was highly effective in reducing populations of the M. incognita , increasing cucumber yield, and causing no damage to the plants [ 66 ]. Applying this to the soil effectively controlled M. incognita and increased plant yield [ 115 ]. This was also effective in managing M. incognita in tomato crops [ 116 ]. However, Singh and Mathur, [ 117 ] noted that the biocontrol agent's effectiveness can vary depending on the timing of its application, primarily due to its ability to establish itself within the soil rhizosphere and parasitize the target pest [ 64 ]. Therefore, applying the BCA at the time of vegetable seedling transplantation can provide significant protection against RKNs like M. incognita . 5 Conclusion Biocontrol agents offer an eco-friendlier alternative to chemical nematicides for managing soil nematodes. Our results revealed that the application of P. lilacinum significantly controlled the nematode populations and root gall formation. Furthermore, its application significantly enhanced plant development, even under the situations of nematode attack. However, more research is necessary to validate the efficacy of the P. lilacinum to manage the root-knot nematode diseases under field conditions. Declarations Acknowledgments The authors sincerely thank to Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka Bangladesh for giving facilities to conduct this research. Disclosure statement No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s). Funding The authors do not receive any funding for the publication of this research. Author's statement The research presented in this manuscript is entirely new and has not been published or submitted for publication anywhere else. Authors’ contributions Conceptualization: A.I.M.; writing-original draft preparation: A.I.M.; Data Analysis and review: F.M.A.; T.K.; J.S.; A.A.F; Visualization, Writing, Editing: M.O.K. All the authors have read and agreed to the final version of the manuscript for publication. Ethical Statement The germplasm used in the present study were procured from brinjal and tomato seeds from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Gazipur, Bangladesh. Lalteer, seed company, Bangladesh provided the seeds of Cucumber cv. Kashinda. The seed samples are collected during exploration programmes duly permitted and approved by the university and samples are documented properly. Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University has been established by an act of legislature and is the custodian of crop biodiversity. As a student of the Plant Pathology Department, the first author is fully authorised to collect, conserve and characterise the local crop genetic resources for breeding improved varieties upon permission of the department authority. 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Mitu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"A.","middleName":"I.","lastName":"Mitu","suffix":""},{"id":391845987,"identity":"3e51709c-7d8a-4820-b090-3927aa80d4a5","order_by":1,"name":"F. M. Aminuzzaman","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"F.","middleName":"M.","lastName":"Aminuzzaman","suffix":""},{"id":391845988,"identity":"eb21b585-f3f9-48da-878c-7faac4444eb4","order_by":2,"name":"T. Kibria","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"T.","middleName":"","lastName":"Kibria","suffix":""},{"id":391845992,"identity":"2548bf16-4155-4659-a291-4dbb33976ccd","order_by":3,"name":"J. Shammi","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"J.","middleName":"","lastName":"Shammi","suffix":""},{"id":391845994,"identity":"5a08d25a-8e2a-4574-a9f9-a4245ac25303","order_by":4,"name":"A. A. Faria","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"A.","middleName":"A.","lastName":"Faria","suffix":""},{"id":391845995,"identity":"0e7308fd-a9bb-4d14-bb2f-cab13875298b","order_by":5,"name":"Md. Omar Kayess","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA2klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBACCQkGYwiLvQFIGFiQooXnAEiLBClaJBLAJGEtkrObNxv8bLOxl5/5/OqGHwUSDPzt3Ql4tUjLHCtO7G1LS9xwO6fsZg/QYRJnzm7Aq0VOIsf4AG/b4QQD6Zy0GzxALQYSuYS1HPzb9h/osDNpN/8Qo0UaqCWZt+0AY8MN9mO3ibJFcs6xYmOZc8mJG87ksN2WMZDgIegXidvNmyXflNnZy7cff3bzzR8bOf72XvxawICRDUTyGIBJwsrB4A+IYH9ApOpRMApGwSgYaQAA6ZdHF4OKWcwAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science \u0026 Technology University (HSTU)","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Md.","middleName":"Omar","lastName":"Kayess","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-12-08 10:23:10","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":71914127,"identity":"233a1e0b-5c28-4e2a-bf2f-b7b73fab1f06","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:01","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":111780,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eCollection and culture of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/86dca7703796d15f8239cd60.jpg"},{"id":71916107,"identity":"62e3e4d5-f4cf-4465-881d-dfec29d3b4f7","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:32:01","extension":"jpg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":129401,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEgg mass collection of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne\u003c/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eincognita\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image2.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/c93fa076002e9df84b2cea8f.jpg"},{"id":71914128,"identity":"46c13e50-f31a-4a56-ac85-cc0b130c8a4c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:01","extension":"jpeg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":125920,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eExtraction (A, B) and\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003ecounting of egg masses (C) and J2 stages of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita \u003c/em\u003e(D)\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image3.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/683662eb7e21344db480cf00.jpeg"},{"id":71914171,"identity":"bca67830-99f4-4f88-baeb-7d8502e64dc1","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:03","extension":"jpeg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":223966,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003eapplication time on growth of brinjal plant cv. (A) Singnath (B) Khokhotia\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image4.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/1b62ba2ad5ac240aa1c9994b.jpeg"},{"id":71914142,"identity":"078c518e-3d1f-42ff-aba8-a596b2f5bb6f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:02","extension":"jpeg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":288830,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003eapplication time on gall formation of brinjal plant cv. (A) Singnath (B) Khokhotia\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image5.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/2afb96697d3594c7f744a5ca.jpeg"},{"id":71914130,"identity":"45eef95b-421e-4a3e-acc3-d5cf6a8f5d6f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:01","extension":"jpeg","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":67795,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on (A) % egg masses colonization and (B) on soil colonization by fungus (CFUg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) in pot soil of brinjal var. Singnath\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image6.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/5654b66ca2386ac92c6dc233.jpeg"},{"id":71914132,"identity":"de7e9429-814d-4c3e-9e8d-b05898ccab03","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:01","extension":"jpeg","order_by":7,"title":"Figure 7","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":60445,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on (A) % egg masses colonization and (B) on soil colonization by fungus (CFUg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) in pot soil of brinjal var. Khokhotia\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image7.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/d11d6ac16f4199257d60d38f.jpeg"},{"id":71914178,"identity":"9b32fa7f-695d-4489-8aa3-a12e347a5e87","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:03","extension":"jpeg","order_by":8,"title":"Figure 8","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":273006,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003eapplication time on growth on (B) tomato and (C) cucumber plant\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image8.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/7e40e4a9575c18aac001b3ca.jpeg"},{"id":71914169,"identity":"7b37eb71-248b-4dbf-8b74-fb1bd48e495a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:16:03","extension":"jpg","order_by":9,"title":"Figure 9","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":216157,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003eapplication time on gall formation on (A) tomato and (B) cucumber plant\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image9.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/b6eff6b4640078656a17edbd.jpg"},{"id":71916108,"identity":"cfd9dfea-a035-4631-85e3-93058b7c548f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:32:02","extension":"jpeg","order_by":10,"title":"Figure 10","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":70393,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on (A) % egg masses colonization and (B) on soil colonization by fungus (CFUg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) in pot soil of Tomato\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image10.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/6b30d2e513ebecfe2161d27f.jpeg"},{"id":71915292,"identity":"57078267-cccc-42bb-9911-0a892127efad","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:24:04","extension":"jpeg","order_by":11,"title":"Figure 11","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":67374,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on (A) % egg masses colonization and (B) on soil colonization by fungus (CFUg\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) in pot soil of Cucumber\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image11.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/0cefe36590bf818d2862acc4.jpeg"},{"id":71917514,"identity":"f5938176-8fd5-4352-82e3-8f3ac228eabf","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-12-19 16:48:04","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":3080250,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5602385/v1/014579eb-c346-484d-bf60-a7082c82e2c9.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Application of antagonistic fungi to suppress the Meloidogyne incognita and promote growth of Vegetables","fulltext":[{"header":"1 Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003e Global agricultural production is confronted by a multitude of challenges stemming from both aerial and subterranean influences. Subterranean symptoms are particularly challenging to manage because they are concealed from direct observation, making it difficult to detect and address them promptly. RKNs belonging to the Tylenchida order within the Nematoda phylum, are known for their extensive host range, infecting over 3000 plant species, including numerous fruits and vegetables. To date, more than 100 species of these nematodes have been identified by Gohar \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]; Khan \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]; Khan and Tanaka [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. RKNs are regarded as one of the top five phytopathogens [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. The RKN genus ranks as the tenth most common type of plant-parasitic nematode worldwide, according to El Aimani et al. [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. Four primary \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne\u003c/em\u003e species, namely \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eM. javanica\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eM. arenaria\u003c/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eM. hapla\u003c/em\u003e are considered highly pathogenic [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. These are obligate in nature and infest subterranean plant tissues, particularly the underground root system. They are naturally polyphagous, cosmopolitan and engage with many other phytopathogens that enhance plants mortality [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. RKNs collectively account for nearly 90% of global crop losses, rendering plants more vulnerable to secondary soil-borne different pathogens [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. They have been globally recognized as significant contributors to yield reduction in various agricultural crops. Their capacity to infect a wide range of crop plants has made them a persistent threat to agricultural productivity [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. They pose a significant global agricultural threat, causing annual crop losses estimated at over \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e157\u0026nbsp;billion [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR10\" citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFunctionally, they start infection with root incursion by J2 hatched from soil eggs, puncturing cell wall with stylet. They travel in the root intercellular spaces, establishing feeding sites in giant cells due to host plant defense system activation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. At their feeding sites, these nematodes induce the formation of enlarged cells, often referred to as galls or knots [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. After that RKNs infestation led to yellowing of leaves, defoliation, stunted growth, and plant wilting.They can rapidly complete their life cycles in susceptible crops like vegetables. This results rapid multiplication of their population during the plant\u0026rsquo;s maturity stage. So, the infected plants frequently die before reaching full maturity [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe control of RKNs poses a significant global challenge for crop growers. Various agricultural techniques have been adopted to combat RKNs [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e] those are mainly based on chemical nematicides. The urgent need for sustainable and environmentally friendly RKNs control strategies is underscored by the limitations of current nematicides, which are often toxic to ecology and human health, prone to resistance, and lack long-term efficacy [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e]. To mitigate these negative consequences, it is imperious to discover alternate disease management strategies that minimize reliance on synthetic chemicals [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]. In recent years, biological control has been extensively investigated and implemented to manage plant diseases caused by PPNs (Plant Parasitic Nematodes) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. BCAs have emerged as a preferred method for managing parasitic nematodes in agriculture. These agents offer a safer, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pest control measures [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNematophagous type fungi are natural hunters that can infect and kill nematodes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e] \u003cem\u003ePurpureocillium lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e, a nematophagous fungi previously classified as \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e, emerges as a promising BCA for controlling nematode populations in soil. \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e is a fungal species belonging to the \u003cem\u003eOphiocordycipitaceae\u003c/em\u003e family within the Ascomycota phylum. It is classified under the Sordariomycetes class and the Hypocreales order [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. El-Marzoky \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e] and Isaac \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e] have demonstrated its efficacy in suppressing nematode activity. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has authorized the use of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e as a BCA against nematodes in vegetables [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e]. Nematicide \u003cem\u003eNF produced\u003c/em\u003e from \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e demonstrates potential efficacy against PPNs [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e]. Its widespread distribution and exceptional biological control capabilities make it a promising candidate for sustainable PPN management. This beneficial fungus employs multiple mechanisms, either individually or in combination with other approaches, to lessen nematode proliferation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e]. Previous studies have validated its effectiveness in suppressing various PPN species, including cyst-forming nematodes (\u003cem\u003eHeterodera\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGlobodera\u003c/em\u003e) and root-knot nematodes (\u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne\u003c/em\u003e) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e]. This organism employs a multi-faceted approach to suppress nematode populations, including enzymatic degradation of nematode cuticles [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e] production of toxic compounds [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e], and the secretion of antimicrobial agents [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, it exhibits aggressive colonization strategies, competing for resources and directly parasitizing nematode eggs [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e]. Furthermore, this organism positively impacts plant health by promoting growth and inducing plant defense responses [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e39\u003c/span\u003e]. The \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e has showed its potentiality for effectively controlling various PPNs, including RKNs, when used in integrated pest management strategies.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA widespread range of cultivated plants, mostly vegetables are susceptible to RKNs infections [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e40\u003c/span\u003e] They are the most common and cosmopolitan type pests that negatively impact both the quantity as well as quality of tomatoes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e], egg plant [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR44\" citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e43\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e] and cucumber [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e46\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e47\u003c/span\u003e]. RKN management strategies are significantly more complex compared to other plant pathogens due to the subterranean lifestyle of nematodes. These microscopic organisms often remain hidden within the soil and plant roots, making them difficult to detect by producers. Chemical management of RKNs is unfeasible due of its inadequate penetration into the ovum of RKNs, rapid leaching into ground water, and quickly degradation in environment. Additionally, the high price of commercial nematicides makes them economically expensive for farmers to apply in RKN control management [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGiven the importance of biological control agents to manage RKNs, this study evaluated the antagonistic potentiality of \u003cem\u003ePurpureocillium lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e fungi against \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e on three important vegetable (tomato, eggplant, and cucumber) crops.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2 Materials and Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1 Location and experimental environments\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis investigation was carried out at the laboratory and shade house of the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Most of the investigated plants were kept in the shade house, where the temperature was 30\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003eC and 23\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003eC during the day and night respectively with an average temperature of 28\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2\u003csup\u003eo\u003c/sup\u003eC.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2 Experimental Materials\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe used three different vegetables namely brinjal cv. Singnath and Khotkhotia, tomato cv. BARI Tomato 14, and cucumber cv. Kashinda. We collected the brinjal and tomato seeds from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Gazipur, Bangladesh. Lalteer, seed company, Bangladesh provided the seeds of Cucumber cv. Kashinda.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3 Culture and application of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe cultured and subculture \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e on the medium of Potato Drextose Agar (PDA) for 15 days. The fungus pure culture was collected from the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Once the sporulation process was completed (15 days), we sterilized the culture plates and placed them into the laminar airflow chamber. Next, we added sterile water and used a sterile brush to scrape away the spore masses. The harvested spores were filtered through sterilised cheesecloth. Then, we harvested the spore from each fungus plate more than twice. The spore suspension was collected, and spores were counted with a hemocytometer and adjusted to a concentration of 10\u0026times;107 spores mL\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e solution. After that, the inoculation was done at 36\u0026times;107 spores per plant in each pot with a micropipette. We thoroughly mixed the spores with the soil during the setup of the final experiment while the plants were transplanted (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4 Culture of Meloidogyne incognita, inoculum preparation and inoculation\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe targeted RKN species \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e was cultured and maintained in susceptible tomato plants grown in plastic pots containing sterilised soil for two months. We handpicked egg masses from the nematode cultured, sterilised them with NaOCl for 1 min. They were then rinsed three times with water, and inoculated them into young tomato seedlings. Subsequent subcultures were initiated by infecting tomato seedlings with egg masses. Mature egg masses of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e were collected from severely galled roots of tomatoes. Egg masses were counted using a compound microscope. Three holes, each five centimetres deep, were dug around the plants with a metal rod. Twenty egg masses, containing approximately 10,000 eggs each, were placed in these holes. The holes were then covered with soil to prevent them from drying out. A few days after the egg masses were placed in the holes, the pots were carefully watered to prevent the nematodes from being lost through leaching or excessive drying (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5 Extraction of nematode from soil and counting of juveniles\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe used the Whitehead and Hemming tray method [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e] to extract nematodes from soil. Soil samples of 100 grams each were prepared by thoroughly mixing pot soil. These samples were then placed on a sieve submerged in a bowl of water. Three layers of kitchen tissue paper were used to line the upper portion of the sieve. Following a 5-day incubation period, the nematode suspension was transferred to a beaker and allowed to settle overnight. Excess water was subsequently decanted, and a 5 mL aliquot was taken for enumeration in a counting chamber. We used a compound microscope for the juvenile's counting.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.6 Egg masses (%) colonization by Paecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eEgg masses were harvested from the roots of brinjal, tomato, and cucumber plants, following the experimental protocol. These masses were rinsed thoroughly with water, sterilized using a Clorox solution, and then transferred to petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. We collected five egg masses/root randomly, resulting in 40 egg masses per treatment. The presence of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e with colonized egg masses was confirmed after five days of incubation. Slides were prepared from cultures grown on PDA to verify the association between the fungus and the egg masses.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.7 Soil colonization by Paecilomyces lilacinus (CFUg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e soil)\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSoil samples of 1 gram were taken from the root zone of each treatment following plant harvest. The spore count (colony-forming units per gram of soil) was quantified using the soil dilution plate technique.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.8 Collection and counting of egg mass\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWe collected heavily galled type roots from the studied plant samples and appropriately washed them with the help of water. To prevent the egg mass from being washed away, the roots were carefully immersed in a Phloxine-B solution (2 mgL\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) for 15 minutes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e49\u003c/span\u003e]. Afterwards, we soaked the collected root in water by placing it in tissue paper for a period of one minute. A sterile microscope slide was prepared. Three droplets of glycerin were applied to the slide. Then, using fine forceps, we collected egg masses from the collected root, placed them on the slide, and used the bottom side of the needle to smash them. After placing the cover slip, we examined the slide under a microscope and counted the egg masses (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.9 Microscopic evaluation of the fungi effect on nematode eggs and juveniles\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e was cultured on PDA medium supplemented with 10 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e streptomycin. The petri dish contained the inoculated medium was incubated at 25\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2\u0026deg;C for a period of 10 days. One hundred surface-sterilized eggs of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e were introduced onto each petri dish. The eggs were disinfected with a 2% sodium hypochlorite solution for 5 minutes prior to placement. Following a 10-day incubation period, the eggs were stained with cotton blue dye to facilitate visualization. The rate of egg parasitism was then determined by microscopic examination, involving a count of both parasitized and unparasitized eggs. The eggs were deemed dead if they were directly penetrated by fungal hyphae or if their contents had disintegrated [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e]. However, eggs with live juveniles or those that hatched juveniles were considered viable (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.10 Data Collection\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eFollowing a two-month post-transplantation period, the plants were collected, and their characteristics were documented. We determined the height of each plant by measuring the distance from its base to the tip of the youngest leaf before harvesting. Measurements were taken using a ruler, with the results recorded in centimetres. The roots were extracted from the soil using an anti-cutter. After carefully removing any remaining soil, the roots were washed gently and then stored in individual polybags. The root length was measured from the growing point to the longest lateral root tip in centimetres and recorded the fresh weight in grams. At this moment gall index was taken following the scale described in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. Shoots and roots were dried in the sun for three days, followed by 4\u0026ndash;6 hours in a dryer at 70\u0026deg;C. After drying, dry weight (g) was recorded.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot galls were indexed on a 0\u0026ndash;10 scale of Bridge and Page (1980)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eScales\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpecification\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo galls\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFew small galls, difficult to find\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSmall gall only, clearly visible, main root clean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSome larger galls visible, main root clean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLarger galls predominant but main root clean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e50% of the roots infected, galling on some main roots, reduced root system\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGalling on main roots\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMajority of the main roots galled\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll main roots including tap roots galled, few clean roots visible\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll roots severely galled, plants usually dying\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll roots severely galled, no root system\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.10 Analysis of data\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. One-way ANOVA was conducted to assess differences among treatment means. Duncan's multiple comparison test was subsequently applied to identify specific pairwise differences where significance was observed at the (P\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;0.01) level.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3 Results","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1 Effect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on brinjal plant\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe result showed that the \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e suppressed the growth-related traits of brinjal plants (P\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;0.01) (Tables\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). Biocontrol agent application significantly enhanced plant growth compared to nematode inoculation alone. The longest shoot was recorded from PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e (45.35 and 25.49 cm for Singnath and Khotkhotia, respectively) for both the variety statistically alike to PL\u003csub\u003eP,\u003c/sub\u003e PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP,\u003c/sub\u003e and blank control. The other traits, like shoot fresh weight (34.50 and 10.84 g), shoot dry weight (7.10 and 4.18 g), longest root (25.73 and 15.81 cm), root fresh weight (21.60 and 12.96 g) and root dry weight (4.56 and 10.4 g) was recorded greater in PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e treatment in Singnath and Khotkhotia variety respectively, due to the biocontrol agents\u0026rsquo; magnanimous effect on plant growth. Similarly, blank treatment or nontreated group gave the alike result in most of the cases for both the varieties (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003eA and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003eB).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on the growth parameters of brinjal cv. singnath\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37.75bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26.7abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.83a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21.19abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.02ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.11ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.1c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23.79c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.95b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e19.16bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.60b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.55ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e43.47ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.50a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.10a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.7a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21.60a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.4a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45.35a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e32.56ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.58a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23.02ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.35a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.90ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e38.34bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.60abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.96b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.44c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.35ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.33b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e40.79abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.00ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.11a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23.51ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21.44a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.55ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.45c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26.06bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.78b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.73c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.46ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.57ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e0.01)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.89\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilaceous\u003c/em\u003e application time on the growth parameters of brinjal cv. Khotkhotia\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot Length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22.92ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.59a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.09bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.56ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.65a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.18a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.10b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.01b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.24e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.81c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.13b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.76b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23.4ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.8a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.18a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.81a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.96a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.56a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.49a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.20a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.78ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.75ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.39a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.25a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.32b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.59b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.24cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.66ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.25b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.10b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.98a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.31a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.34ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.25ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.13a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.26a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e19.71b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.10 b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.60de\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.74bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.88b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.36b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.29\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.93\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHowever, the plants treated with biocontrol agent on different days improve the studied traits compared to single inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003eA and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003eB for Singnath and Khokhotia respectively). RKNs induced the formation of large and complex root galls in sole nematode-treated group. The different treatments where \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e applied at different time demonstrated a significant suppression of the multiplication of nematode in comparison to the \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e treated plants (Tables\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e). The gall index (6.63 and 5.25), number of egg mass root\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (832.5 and 78.75), number of eggs/egg mass (317.8 and 305.6), number of J2 g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e soil (737.5 and 17.50) and reduction factor (71.58 and 3.89) was recorded top in Singnath and Khotkhotia, respectively where the plants inoculated only with \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting (Mp). Besides, the PLp treatment showed an extensive reduction of gall formation and destruction of nematode proliferation for the above-mentioned indices compared to solitary nematode-treated plants. Nontreated or blank control treatment also gave the same result. Other treatments showed variable result (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003eA-\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003eB and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003eA-\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003eB for Singnath and Khokhotia, respectively).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e on brinjal cv. Singnath\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGall Index\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(0\u0026ndash;10 scale)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of egg masses/root\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of eggs/Egg mass\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of J\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e soil\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eReproduction\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFactor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.63a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e832.5a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e317.8a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e737.5a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e71.58a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.50bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e97.50bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e99.38c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e105.6d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.81d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.13b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e270.8b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e295.9ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e578.8b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e53.56b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.63bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e168.8bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e103.1 c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90.25d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.76cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.8b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e204.6b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e214.6 b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e280.1c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e27.08c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e0.01)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e169.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e93.88\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e156.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e on brinjal cultivar Khotkhotia\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGall Index\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(0\u0026ndash;10 scale)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eegg masses/root\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of eggs/egg mass\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eJ\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e/g soil\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eReproduction factor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.25a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78.75a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e305.6a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.50a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.89a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e + PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.63d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.63c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e121.9b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.42c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.38c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e40.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e213.1ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.29b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.97b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.63d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.75c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e183.8b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.18c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.48c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.63b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47.50b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e201.3ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.94b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.07b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22.34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e101.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2 Effect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on tomato plant\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eOur findings displayed that the RKN (\u003cem\u003eM. incognita)\u003c/em\u003e negatively impacted the growth parameters of tomato plants (P\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;0.01) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). The application of bioagents significantly enhanced plant growth compared to the sole inoculation of nematode. The highest shoot length (24.48 cm), shoot fresh weight (10.09 g), shoot dry weight (1.50 g), root length (10.09 cm), root fresh weight (3.29 g) and root dry weight (1.09 g) was recorded in PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e treatment statistically alike to PL\u003csub\u003eP,\u003c/sub\u003e and blank control. The sole nematode-treated tomato plants showed dwarf stature with reduced shoot and root size compared to other treatments because of its antagonistic relation with the tomato plants (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003eB).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilaceous\u003c/em\u003e application time on the growth parameters of BARI Tomato 14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot Length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeight\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeight\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh Weight\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry Weight\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23.42ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.73abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.24a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.73abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.66a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.53bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.67d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.09c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.49b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.09c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.65c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.23c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24.11a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.69ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.43a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.69ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.88a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.63b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24.48a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.09a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.50a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.09a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.29a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.09a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.60d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.23bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.53b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.23bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.89bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.30bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.31bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.36ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.41a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.36ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.04a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.20a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.91cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.63abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.48b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.63abc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.46b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.28bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTomato plants co-inoculated with \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e exhibited enhanced growth compared to those inoculated solely with \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e during planting. RKN significantly induced the development of substantial and intricate root galls in the sole nematode-treated group (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig9\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003eA). The various treatments involving the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at different time points exhibited a notable reduction in nematode populations within tomato plants when compared to the \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e control group (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e). The maximum gall index (5.63), number of egg mass root\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (43.13), number of eggs/egg mass (316.9), number of J2 g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e soil (438.8) and reduction factor (36.46) were recorded in the plants inoculated only with \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e during planting (Mp). Besides, the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at the time of planting and blank control treated group recorded zero infection for the above-mentioned indices (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig10\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003eA and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig10\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003eB).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab7\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 7\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e in BARI Tomato 14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGall Index\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(0\u0026ndash;10 scale)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of egg masses/\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of eggs/egg mass\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of J\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e/g soil\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eReproduction factor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.63a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e43.13a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e316.9a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e438.8a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36.46a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e + PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.50cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.25b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e62.50c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e104.4c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.41c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.38b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.25b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e251.9a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e349.4a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.21a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.25d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.75c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e71.88c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.77c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.38bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.38b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e155.0b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e235.6b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.87b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD(P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.80\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e112.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.02\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3 Effect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on cucumber plant\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results found that \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e negatively impacted the growth parameters of cucumber plants (P\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;0.01) (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e). \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application significantly boosted the plant growth compared nematode treated plants. PLp\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;Mp treatment exhibited shoot and root growth parameters comparable to PLpP and the blank control, reaching maximum values of 76.11 cm, 25.84 g, 12.27 g, 30.13 cm, 14.40 g, and 7.58 g, respectively, for shoot length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root length, root fresh weight, and root dry weight. Cucumber plants treated solely with nematodes exhibited a stunted growth pattern, characterized by reduced shoot and root size. This adverse effect is likely attributed to an antagonistic interaction between the nematodes and the host plants (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003eC).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab8\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 8\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003ePaecilomyces lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time of the growth parameters of cucumber cv. Kashinda\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot Length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShoot weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot length (cm)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFresh Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDry Weight (g)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e61.71a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22.42a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.86a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26.50b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.13b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.13b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.42b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.21c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.88b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.44d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.99d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.43e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e69.88a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24.23a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.73a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e27.31ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.94a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.49b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e + PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e76.11a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.84a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.27a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30.13a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.40a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.58a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36.84b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.88bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.45b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.48d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.61c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.59d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e77.40a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.71a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.57a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e29.26ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.27a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.00a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.28b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.14b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.43b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.33c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.13 c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.63c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.69\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn contrast to the negative impact of individual \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e inoculation on cucumber plant growth, the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e significantly enhances the development of these plants. RKN significantly stimulated the development of substantial and intricate root galls in the sole nematode-treated group (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig9\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003eB). The various treatments involving \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e, administered at distinct time points, exhibited a pronounced reduction in nematode proliferation within cucumber plants when compared to those solely exposed to Meloidogyne incognita (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab9\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e). Plants inoculated solely with \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting (Mp) exhibited the highest gall index (6.50), number of egg masses per root (109.4), number of eggs per egg mass (212.5), number of juvenile nematodes per gram of soil (16.88), and a reduction factor of 3.34. e MpPL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e-treated plants sometimes gave statistically similar results to negative control. In contrast, the groups treated with \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and the untreated control exhibited no observable infections for any of the aforementioned parameters (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig11\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003eA and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig11\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003eB).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab9\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 9\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffect of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e application time on gall index, nematode population and reproduction factor of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e in cucumber cultivar Kashinda\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTreatments\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGall Index\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(0\u0026ndash;10\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003escale)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of egg masses/root\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of eggs/egg mass\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNumber of J\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e/g soil\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eReproduction factor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBC\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.50a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e109.4a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e212.5a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.88a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.34a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00d\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e + PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.25cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.13cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e75.00b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.25c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.72c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.88b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78.75ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e184.1a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.38ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.70ab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.75c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24.38cd\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78.75b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.00c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.63c\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.38b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e50.63bc\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e161.0a\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.5b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.87b\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLSD (P\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\ge\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e10)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37.32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78.52\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.89\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003eBC\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Blank control (Without any inoculation), M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e+ M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e simultaneously at planting, M\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003ePL\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e=Inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003e7DAP\u003c/sub\u003e = Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at planting and \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days after planting, PL\u003csub\u003e7DBP\u003c/sub\u003eM\u003csub\u003eP\u003c/sub\u003e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e at 7 days before planting and inoculation of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at planting.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4 Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003ePPNs significantly reduce the amount and quality of crop yield leading to financial loss in the global agricultural sector [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e51\u003c/span\u003e]. The use BCAs becoming significant in integrated pest management in different crop production strategy [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR53\" citationid=\"CR52\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e52\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e54\u003c/span\u003e]. The detrimental effects of pesticides on human and animal health with the environment have spurred a growing demand for sustainable, cost-effective, and agronomically practicable alternatives for eco-friendly crop production [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e55\u003c/span\u003e]. Researchers are actively investigating biocontrol agents that are environmentally friendly and harmless to humans as potential alternatives to conventional pesticides [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR57\" citationid=\"CR56\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e56\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR58\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e58\u003c/span\u003e]. \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e is gaining prominence as biocontrol agent among farmers due to its lower cost and reduced environmental impact compared to synthetic nematicides [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR60 CR61\" citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e59\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR62\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e62\u003c/span\u003e]. Our research explored the effectiveness of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e fungus as a BCA for safeguarding plants from PPNs. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of information concerning its efficacy against RKN in various plants, such as brinjal, tomato, and cucumber. \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e exhibits a versatile lifestyle, thriving as a soil saprobe, plant endophyte, and nematode pathogen. Initially characterized as a nematode egg parasite, subsequent research has demonstrated its ability to infect all life stages of RKNs [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR63\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e63\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR67\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e67\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBCAs exert direct and also indirect effects on nematode populations. They directly produce nematicidal compounds [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR67\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e67\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR68\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e68\u003c/span\u003e] and enzymes like chitinases [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR69\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e69\u003c/span\u003e] and proteases [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. Key metabolites with nematicidal properties like different organic acid (linoleic acid, oxalic acid acetic acid, and chaetoglobosin) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR70\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e70\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, BCAs can colonize plant roots [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR72 CR73\" citationid=\"CR71\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e71\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR74\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e74\u003c/span\u003e] and parasitize nematode eggs [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR76\" citationid=\"CR75\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e75\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR77\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e77\u003c/span\u003e]. Indirectly, they prevent nematode population by inducing plant defense responses and enhance plant resistance [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR78\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e78\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR79\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e79\u003c/span\u003e]. Our findings revealed that the biocontrol agent's (\u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e) efficacy in enhancing plant growth and mitigating disease severity is likely attributed to its rapid proliferation and colonization within the soil rhizosphere. This early establishment may have prevented nematode infection or the spread of other soil-borne fungi, thereby safeguard the plants during its initial stages of development. The precise physiological mechanisms by which biocontrol agents, particularly fungi, enhance plant growth parameters remain obscure. Physiology the biocontrol agents i.e., fungi may alter the cell wall composition and the activate plant defense systems [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR80\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e80\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR81\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e81\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, increased nutrient uptake, disease suppression, and enhanced mineral uptake by mineral solubilization or the synthesis of plant hormones may also contribute to the observed growth benefits when employing biocontrol agents [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR82\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e82\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR85\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e85\u003c/span\u003e]. These findings align with those of [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR71\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e71\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR86\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e86\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR87\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e87\u003c/span\u003e], who also observed positive effects of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e on plant health. Kalele \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR88\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e88\u003c/span\u003e] observed that both pre-and post-planting applications of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e effectively reduced nematode populations and root galling in cucumber and tomato. Ali \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR67\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e67\u003c/span\u003e] and Issac \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e] recorded similar result for tomato and Patil \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR65\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e65\u003c/span\u003e] for cucumber. The study by Khan and Tanaka [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e] and Saleh \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e66\u003c/span\u003e] found that the fungus \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e could potentially serve as a growth enhancer for plants and a biological agent to control root-knot nematodes, thereby mitigating diseases in eggplants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e exhibited a stronger anti-nematode effect when applied before planting compared to after infection. These findings support the potential of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e as a biological control agent for \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e. Our results align with those of Sarven \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR64\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e64\u003c/span\u003e] who reported a significant decrease in gall index (up to 72%) and egg masses (up to 84%) of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e in brinjal plants treated with \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e. On the contrary, nematode treatment resulted in a more significant reduction in plant growth compared to other treatments. This can be due to the rapid colonization of plant roots by a larger population of juvenile nematodes, leading to the subsequent development of adult female \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e. The formation of abnormal giant cells and the disruption of xylem vessel development led to impaired plant physiological processes. These included the transport of water with different nutrients from the root zones and influence the nutrient uptake pathways, photosynthesis systems, and increased susceptibility to secondary pathogen infections [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR90\" citationid=\"CR89\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e89\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR91\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e91\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe antagonistic effects of the fungus \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e on the \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne spp\u003c/em\u003e. have been the subject of extensive research for several decades by numerous scholars [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR67\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e67\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR78\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e78\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR93\" citationid=\"CR92\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e92\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR94\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e94\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e. We also observed that \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e effectively suppresses the targeted RKN. Our result revealed that all treatments significantly reduced the gall formation, egg production, and multiplication of nematode populations compared with negative control or only RKN treated plants. But the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e during planting significantly reduced the \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e infection and its proliferation. Application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e to the soil earlier and at the time of transplanting of tomato seedlings reduced \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne spp.\u003c/em\u003e egg masses over 80%. Our results are aligning with the earlier study done by [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR86\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e86\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR95\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e95\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR96\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e96\u003c/span\u003e] with their studies with \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e. Swarnakumari and Kalaiarasan [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e] observed that fungal mycelium began to adhere to the egg surface within 24 hours of inoculation. Fungal colonization of the eggshell of nematode commenced with the development of appressoria on the second day. Subsequent fungal growth was observed on the egg surface 72 hours post-inoculation with conidia. Complete fungal growth was observed in the eggs within four days of inoculation [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. The parasitic activity of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e on nematode eggs and all life stages can lead to a decrease in the nematode population [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e59\u003c/span\u003e]. The fungi spores can attach to the outer layer of second-stage juvenile root-knot nematodes as they move through the soil. These spores invade the root knot nematode's outer layer (cuticle) and subsequently engulf the juvenile nematodes [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR56\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e56\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, the fungal hyphae can penetrate the nematode's body through natural openings, such as the anus and vulva. \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e feeds on and ultimately kills nematodes by consuming their internal contents [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR64\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e64\u003c/span\u003e]. Besides, the extent to which nematodes are suppressed by fungi, as evidenced by reduced gall formation and reproductive capacity, varies across different organisms as well as environmental factors [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR97\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e97\u003c/span\u003e]. The incidence of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e in the root zone can potentially mitigate the population of nematode juveniles by colonizing the roots and forming a protective barrier against root-knot nematode invasion [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR99\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e99\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR100\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e100\u003c/span\u003e]. Saprophytic fungi can trigger systemic resistance in plants by stimulating the production of defense enzymes like peroxidase (PO) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR101\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e101\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR102\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e102\u003c/span\u003e]. Research by El-Deriny [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR103\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e103\u003c/span\u003e] has shown that strains of biocontrol agents can increase the activity of either PPO or PO in various plant species.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe genomic analysis of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e has identified a distinctive repertoire of enzymes and molecules that likely contribute to its parasitic capabilities against \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR104\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e104\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR105\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e105\u003c/span\u003e]. Notably, the fungus exhibits a significantly higher abundance of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), proteases, secondary metabolites, and pathogenesis-related genes compared to other fungi [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR106\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e106\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR107\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e107\u003c/span\u003e]. These molecular mechanisms may enable the fungus to effectively penetrate, infect, and eventually destroy the nematode [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR108\" citationid=\"CR107\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e107\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR109\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e109\u003c/span\u003e] A number of secondary metabolites produced by fungi that prey on nematodes have been shown to kill or attract nematodes, as well as influence the development of structures used for reproduction or trapping [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR74\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e74\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR110\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e110\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR111\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e111\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, fungal enzymes called chitinases have been found to break the eggshells of nematodes in laboratory experiments, indicating their ability to infect these parasites [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR113\" citationid=\"CR112\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e112\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR114\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e114\u003c/span\u003e]. A bionematicide namely Bio-nematon, produced from the fungi \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinus\u003c/em\u003e, was highly effective in reducing populations of the \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e, increasing cucumber yield, and causing no damage to the plants [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e66\u003c/span\u003e]. Applying this to the soil effectively controlled \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e and increased plant yield [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR115\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e115\u003c/span\u003e]. This was also effective in managing \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e in tomato crops [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR116\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e116\u003c/span\u003e]. However, Singh and Mathur, [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR117\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e117\u003c/span\u003e] noted that the biocontrol agent's effectiveness can vary depending on the timing of its application, primarily due to its ability to establish itself within the soil rhizosphere and parasitize the target pest [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR64\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e64\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, applying the BCA at the time of vegetable seedling transplantation can provide significant protection against RKNs like \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5 Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eBiocontrol agents offer an eco-friendlier alternative to chemical nematicides for managing soil nematodes. Our results revealed that the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e significantly controlled the nematode populations and root gall formation. Furthermore, its application significantly enhanced plant development, even under the situations of nematode attack. However, more research is necessary to validate the efficacy of the \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e to manage the root-knot nematode diseases under field conditions.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors sincerely thank to Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka Bangladesh for giving facilities to conduct this research.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisclosure statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors do not receive any funding for the publication of this research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor\u0026apos;s statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe research presented in this manuscript is entirely new and has not been published or submitted for publication anywhere else.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConceptualization: A.I.M.; writing-original draft preparation: A.I.M.; Data Analysis and review: F.M.A.; T.K.; J.S.; A.A.F; Visualization, Writing, Editing: M.O.K. All the authors have read and agreed to the final version of the manuscript for publication.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe germplasm used in the present study were procured from brinjal and tomato seeds from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Gazipur, Bangladesh. Lalteer, seed company, Bangladesh provided the seeds of Cucumber cv. Kashinda. The seed samples are collected during exploration programmes duly permitted and approved by the university and samples are documented properly. Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University has been established by an act of legislature and is the custodian of crop biodiversity. As a student of the Plant Pathology Department, the first author is fully authorised to collect, conserve and characterise the local crop genetic resources for breeding improved varieties upon permission of the department authority. All the guidelines were followed as per the University research ethics for collection, characterisation and documentation of landraces or germplasm accessions.Besides experiments involving \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e and the use of antagonistic fungi were carried out with proper consent and adherence to biosafety protocols. No plants were harmed beyond the scope necessary for the experiment, and all procedures were designed to ensure the sustainability of the ecosystem and promote safe agricultural practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Availability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData will be made available on request to the corresponding author\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGohar IM, Alyamani A, Shafi ME, Mohamed EA, Ghareeb RY, Desoky EM, Hasan ME, Zaitoun AF, El-Tarabily KA, Elnahal AS. 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Biocontrol Science and Technology 20, 275\u0026ndash;282. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttp://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09583150903484318\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1080/09583150903484318\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-agriculture","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Agriculture](https://www.springer.com/journal/44279)","snPcode":"44279","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44279/3","title":"Discover Agriculture","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Biological Control, Meloidogyne Incognita, Root Gall, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Nematophagaous Fungi, Vegetables","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe root-knot nematode (RKNs) \u003cem\u003eMeloidogyne incognita\u003c/em\u003e, are a significant biotic factor that negatively impacted both the yield and quality of vegetables. The nematophagous fungus, \u003cem\u003ePurpureocillium lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e, is widely regarded as a highly effective biocontrol agent (BCA) for RKNs. To investigated the nematicidal efficacy of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e against eggs and second-stage juveniles of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e at varying application durations, this investigation was carried out at the invitro settings of the Department of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The results also revealed that \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e effectively reduced the survival rates of \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e eggs and juveniles in an application time dependent manner. Microscopic examination displayed that the fungi directly invaded the eggs and made contact with the juveniles, demonstrated its parasitic nature against \u003cem\u003eM. incognita\u003c/em\u003e. We also found that \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e effectively suppressed nematode populations and reduced the incidence of root galls. Notably, the application of \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e significantly stimulated plant growth metrics and biomass, even in the presence of nematode infections. Our research findings suggest that \u003cem\u003eP. lilacinum\u003c/em\u003e can be employed as a beneficial biocontrol agent to manage RKNs and to also enhance the development of the vegetables.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Application of antagonistic fungi to suppress the Meloidogyne incognita and promote growth of Vegetables","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-12-19 16:15:55","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5602385/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2025-01-10T07:35:20+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-01-08T16:59:03+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"11219916746454053903595987510435453533","date":"2025-01-04T01:43:21+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"302156471351855677935750852423010055624","date":"2025-01-02T07:39:17+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2024-12-31T11:48:18+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"60696822632999016856227917057901914532","date":"2024-12-24T15:34:20+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2024-12-23T11:07:09+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"195404726863383877936492498225900609892","date":"2024-12-23T07:48:23+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2024-12-23T06:44:37+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2024-12-18T10:47:48+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2024-12-17T13:03:04+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Agriculture","date":"2024-12-08T10:10:59+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-agriculture","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Agriculture](https://www.springer.com/journal/44279)","snPcode":"44279","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44279/3","title":"Discover Agriculture","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"438dfea1-ec16-4cd6-af2a-b44bdb512b6b","owner":[],"postedDate":"December 19th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-04-08T12:08:30+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-12-19 16:15:55","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5602385","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5602385","identity":"rs-5602385","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}