Impact of chitosan on root knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp. and root pathogenic fungus, Fusarium spp.

Abstract

Pests, diseases and nematodes are examples of biotic stressors that are reducing agricultural output. Meloidogyne incognita, Meloidogyne javanica, and Meloidogyne arenaria are the most common nematode pests. Root-knot nematodes and root-pathogenic fungi are controlled with a variety of chemicals. Searching for safe chemical substitutes is essential because of the lingering effects of chemicals on the environment. Using biopolymers to treat plant diseases is one such option. Biopolymers are naturally occurring substances produced by bacteria, fungus, plants, and animals during their life cycles. Chitosan is one such polymer that is derived from the natural polysaccharide, chitin. Chitosan induces a hypersensitive response at the infection site of a pathogen or nematode that leads to cause programmed cell death.