BIO-EFFICACY OF NEEM ROOT ON THE MANAGEMENT OF ROOT KNOT NEMATODE ON FLUTED PUMPKIN, TELFAIRIA OCCIDENTALIS

Root knot nematode is a destructive pathogen affecting agricultural crops, resulting in significant yield loss and economic implications whereas conventionally used chemical nematicides have been effective for the management of nematode disease. Chemical nematicides pose environmental and health hazards, prompting the search for eco-friendly alternatives. This study was conducted to analyze the phytochemical composition of Neem root extract as well as to evaluate their antinematicidal activity against root knot nematode in vitro. The experiment had the following treatments: Neem root extract 5%, 10% and 15% concentration and non-treated plant (control), all replicated three times. Phytochemical analysis result for Neem root showed that it had Alkaloid, Tannins, Saponins, Glycosides, Cardiac glycosides, Phenols, Steroids and Anthraquinones in varied quantities. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, root gall index, weight of leaves and weight of root and the data collected were subjected to analysis of variance while means were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test at 5% level of probability. It was concluded that Neem root extracts would be of great benefit for the control of root knot nematode of fluted pumpkin however, this study recommends that further research be carried to optimize the extraction process, determine the field efficacy, and assess the impact on non-target organisms.