Screening of cucurbitaceous rootstocks against root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) and soilborne pathogens (Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp.)

Abstract

Abstract. One of the main problems in cucumber greenhouse production is control of soil-borne pathogens and root-knot nematodes. Grafting cucumber plants represent an alternative method to control that is safety and does not pollute the environment. Immune forms to these pests are not established, but in some studies are found sources belong to Cucurbitaceae family that possesses resistant or tolerant response. The aim of this study was to screening cucurbitaceous rootstock genotypes to root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.), Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp. During the period 2014-2015 in the Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute, Plovdiv thirteen breeding materials belonging to Cucurbitaceae family were tested: Gergana, Kiara F , TG, TD (Cucumis 1 sativus); CM 720, SB-2, SB-3, Turban (C. maxima); Muskatna 51-17, Carotina, (C. moschata); Turban × Muskatna 51-17, CM 720 × Carotina (C. maxima × C. moschata F ); Local (Lagenaria siceraria). Two parallel trials were performed in greenhouse conditions. Local isolates of pests were used for the screening 1 tests. Plants were grown in pots and inoculated with mixed infection of Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp. In trial with root-knot nematodes the plants were inoculated with 6000 second stage juveniles (J2). The response was recorded 60 days after inoculation. Results indicated that Carotina was resistant when the pots were inoculated with Meloidogyne spp. Resistant response to soil-borne pathogens possesses cucumber lines TG and TD and Lagenaria. Tested cucurbitaceous material can be used directly for grafting cucumber plants, and also be able to used as a basis for starting breeding program for rootstocks with tolerance to Meloidogyne spp., Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp

Keywords

• Cucurbitaceae
• resistance
• soil-borne pathogens
• grafting