Resistance evaluation and host status of selected green gram germplasm against Meloidogyne incognita

The use of nematode resistant cultivars can be one of the most efficient and economical approaches for disease management. To identify sources of resistance, twelve green gram genotypes were evaluated for their resistance against Meloidogyne incognita under greenhouse conditions. The genotypes NCM-255-2 and NCM-251-16 were found immune (I), NCM-257-10 was highly resistant (HR), NCM-257-2 was resistant (R) and genotypes Chakwal-Mung-2006, NM-98, AZRI-06 and NM-2006 were rated moderately resistant (MR). The genotype NM-11 was found to be highly susceptible (HS) while the genotypes NCM-251-13, NCM-251-4 and NCM-252-2 were moderately susceptible (MS). The immune, HR and R genotypes suffered no significant damage by the nematode while the HS genotype showed maximum reduction in growth parameters. Similarly, the damage in MR genotypes was comparatively less as compared to genotypes showing different susceptible reactions. The reductions in growth variables were in the order I < HR < R < MR < MS < HS. Host suitability made on the basis of reproductive factor divulged that three genotypes were non-host, one was poor host while four genotypes each were fair and good hosts of M. incognita. The studies advocate that I, HR and R genotypes have the potential to reduce nematode populations and can thereby preclude establishment of M. incognita and avert yield losses.