The response of cassava cultivars to root-knot nematode infestation: An in vitro method

Abstract

The aim of this study was to obtain information on the response of cassava(Manihot esculenta Crantz) to root-knot nematode infestation. To achieve this aim, a novel in vitro dual root/nematode culture method was used, where root cultures of several cassava cultivars were inoculated with axenic Meloidogyne javanica eggs. Following an incubation period,cassava roots were stained, weighed and dissected to determine the number of galls produced on the roots, as well as the number of mature females embedded in the galls. The number of eggs and larvae produced during this time were also determined. Results indicated that the modified in vitro nematode culture medium used was suitable for most root cultures of cassava cultivars. It was found that some cassava cultivars were highly susceptible to root-knot nematode infestation, with some cultivars showing very high numbers of galls and up to 50 mature females inside each gall. Some cassava cultivars screened, however, showed low numbers of galls and mature females, even though the presence of larvae was high. Some of these cultivars formed callus-like structures instead of galls, and this may be a resistance mechanism. This method may be useful as a screening tool, to determine the response and resistance or susceptibility of cassava cultivars to root-knot nematode infestation.