Acalypha indica Linn is a potential source of root-knot nematode infestation in cultivated fields

Resumen

Acalypha indica L. is a commonly growing weed in India, which is also known as Indian Acalypha. These plants were growing as a weed in pots wherein okra was planted for experimental purpose. Infestation of the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita was observed on it. Soil and root samples were collected for analyses of nematode infestation. Roots of the infested plants were galled measuring gall index (GI) of 3-4. The population density of second stage juveniles (J₂) in soil varies from 378-752/200cc soil and the roots were harboring 3876-7654 eggs/per root system. The root galling and presence of high population of nematode eggs and J₂ revealed that A. indica can be a reservoir for M. incognita during non-host cropping and serve as a source of infestation to other hosts in the next cropping season. So, in the light of present findings growers are advised to be watchful for A. indica in their fields, and keep the field free from this weed to minimize the infestation of M. incognita in the next crop.