Integrated Management of Plant Parasitic Nematodes Infecting Tomato Plants by Biological and Chemical Applications

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a globally important vegetable crop, but its production is severely affected by root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) and reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis which causes significant yield losses. Traditional chemical nematicides, while effective, pose environmental and health risks. This study explores sustainable alternatives , including biological control agents such as NeemAzal- t, earthworm extracts , yeast extracts, and chitosan nanoparticles, combined with chemical treatments. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of these treatments in suppressing nematode populations and enhancing plant growth. Results showed that the combination of NeemAzal-t and chitosan nanoparticles (N+C) was highly effective, achieving 88.2% egg hatching inhibition and significantly improving plant growth parameters. Chemical control (oxamyl) showed the highest efficacy, but biological treatments, particularly N+C, offered a sustainable alternative with comparable results. The study highlights the potential of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies using biological agents to reduce reliance on chemical nematicides and promoting sustainable agriculture.