Ecophysiological characteristics of the nematophagous fungus, Plectosphaerella plurivora, with biocontrol potential on Nacobbus aberrans s.l. in tomato

The plant-parasitic nematode, Nacobbus sp., is responsible for significant economic losses in horticultural production centers Argentina and other countries America, alone or combination with biotic abiotic factors. Although the genus’ distribution restricted to American continent, it has quarantine importance subject international legislation prevent its spread regions. management of phytoparasitic nematodes using biological control strategies a promising eco-compatible alternative, allowing sustainability crop system. Firstly, this study ecophysiologically characterized Plectosphaerella plurivora SRA14, strain nematophagous activity on N. aberrans s.l. This fungal developed vitro under wide temperature range (20–30 °C), but highest levels water stress (Ψ: -7 -10 Mpa; aW: 0.95 0.93) inhibited growth. While extracellular enzymes by was low, P. SRA14 able develop rhizosphere endorhizosphere tomato basil crops without affecting plant vigor parameters producing phytotoxicity signs. Secondly, evidenced biocontrol populations tomato, implanted into both sterile (artificially inoculated) naturally infested soils via greenhouse pot experiments. results work revealed first time potential as agent nematode crops.