Root Disease Complex in Mulberry: Interaction of Root Knot Nematode and Root Rot Pathogens

The root disease complex in mulberry (Morus spp.) has emerged as a significant constraint in sericulture, primarily due to the synergistic interaction between root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and soilborne fungal pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, Botryodiplodia theobromae and Macrophomina phaseolina. While these pathogens are harmful individually, their combined infection leads to severe root damage, resulting in reduced plant vigour, leaf yield and quality. The nematodes facilitate fungal entry by disrupting root integrity, intensifying disease severity and contributing to substantial economic losses. Understanding the interaction mechanisms between nematodes and fungal pathogens is crucial for developing effective integrated disease management strategies. This review highlights the biology, symptomatology and interaction of the associated pathogens, along with sustainable management strategies aimed at mitigating the impact of this complex on mulberry cultivation and sericulture productivity.