Evaluation of the effects of earthworm Eisenia fetida-based products on the pathogenicity of root-knot nematode(Meloidogyne javanica) infecting cucumber

Background Biocontrol of nematode agents to decreasethe hazardous impacts of chemical pesticide applicationincluding problems of public health and environmentalpollution is a priority. In this study, solid (Vermicompost)and liquid products (Liquid Vermicompost, Vermiwashand Coelomic fluid) of the earthworm species Eisenia fetidawere tested against root-knot nematode, Meloidogynejavanica in vitro and greenhouse conditions.Results Results showed that Liquid Vermicompost,Coelomic fluid and Vermiwash had the greatest effect onegg hatching inhibition, respectively, and Coelomic fluid,Vermiwash and Liquid Vermicompost had the highesteffect on mortality of larvae (J2), respectively, in vitro. Allearthworm-based products were added to the cucumberpots and then a root-knot disease as well as plant growthindices was recorded. Results showed that all productscould reduce the number of nematode juveniles and gallindex in greenhouse conditions. The best combination forcontrolling disease was Vermicompost ? 10 % LiquidVermicompost and the highest rates of growth related toplants were treated with Vermicompost ? 10 %Vermiwash.Conclusions It is concluded that earthworm productshave a remarkable potential as control agents against rootknotnematode and improving host plant health.