In-Vitro Nematicidal Efficacy of Lantana Camara Leaf Extract Combined with Endophytic Fungus (Colletotrichum Nigrum) Against Root-Knot Nematodes

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are a major threat to crop productivity due to their polyphagous nature. However, hazards due to chemicals have necessitated farmers to search for alternative safe approaches to manage RKNs. This study evaluated nematicidal effects of Lantana camara L. leaf extract alone and in combination with endophytic Colletotrichum nigrum isolated from roots of tree tomato as an ecofriendly solution to manage RKNs. Extract from powdered Lantana leaves (20 grams/100 ml w/v) were evaluated at 25, 50, 75 and 100 % concentrations as standalone and in combination with 1× 106 spores/ml of C. nigrum to leverage on their synergistic effect against second stage juveniles (J2s) of RKNs. One milliliter of each concentration of Lantana extract and or 1 ml of 1× 106 spores/ml of C. nigrum were pipetted into sterile eppendorf tubes containing 1 ml of 50 J2s. The control treatment contained 50 J2s in 1 ml of sterile distilled water. Data was analyzed using Anova SAS software version 9.2. Lantana leaf extract (100 %) alone caused highest significant (P≤0.05) mortalities of 89 and 91 % J2s at 72 hours in experiment I and II, respectively, while the same concentration in combination with C. nigrum had 81 and 83% mortalities of J2s at 72 hours in both tests, respectively. Colletotrichum nigrum alone had 88 and 89 % mortalities at 72 hours relative to control. Lantana leaf extract and C. nigrum may be used singly or in combination in the RKN management to increase agricultural productivity.