Traditional and modern approaches of root knot nematodes management in vegetable crops: A review

Vegetables are the major food source for nutritional security for the teeming millions across the globe. Unfortunately, the growth and development of vegetable crops face yield reduction due to the infestation of notorious sedentary endoparasites, root-knot nematodes (RKN, Meloidogyne spp.). The RKN substantially harm the vegetable crops (20–100 %) culminating in huge economic losses to the growers, becoming a serious threat to the world agricultural sector. Chemical-based nematicides are effective to a certain extent but are costly, unsafe for humans and animals and subject to various regulations. Hence, it is crucial to use green and sustainable approaches for managing RKN infection. Approaches such as cultural practices, application of cover/antagonistic crops, use of organic amendments, nanoparticles (NPs) and chemical nematicides have been deployed for management of RKN. However, application of biocontrol agents is a safer, more reliable, cost-effective and promising alternative method for management of RKN. These biocontrol agents not only improve plant health but also facilitate plants to withstand various biotic stresses by inducing systemic resistance. Novel approaches, such as transgenic technologies, omics-based strategies, and integrated management of root-knot nematodes (RKNs), are receiving increasing attention.Hence, the present review focuses on the challenges associated with RKN management and provides explicit information on traditional and modern approaches of RKN management. It also emphasises sustainable biocontrol of RKN through fungi and bacteria, for food security.