Evaluation of nematophagous and mycoparasitic potential of some nematode-trapping fungi against plant parasitic nematodes and fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani

Abstract

Nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) are unique soil inhabitants capable of capturing and killing nematodes through specialized trapping structures. Some NTF species also exhibit mycoparasitic behavior, suggesting a dual lifestyle with potential for broad-spectrum biological control. In the present study, nine NTF isolates from orchard soils of the Bundelkhand region, India, were evaluated for their nematophagous and mycoparasitic potential against Meloidogyne incognita, Anguina tritici and Rhizoctonia solani. Based on morphological and molecular characterization (ITS1–ITS4 sequencing), the isolates were identified as Arthrobotrys thaumasia isolates, A. musiformis, A. jinpingensis isolates, A. sphaeroides, A. conoides, Dactylellina phymatopaga and Drechslerella brochopaga. All isolates captured and killed juveniles of M. incognita and A. tritici using distinct trapping devices, while seven isolates exhibited hyphal coiling and parasitism on R. solani. D. brochopaga showed the highest predation against M. incognita (92.6%), whereas A. jinpingensis was most effective against A. tritici (84.33%). Among mycoparasitic fungi, A. thaumasia isolates showed the highest mycoparasitic potential, followed by A. musiformis, by forming hyphal coiling around R. solani. This study represents the first evidence of mycoparasitic potential in A. thaumasia isolates, A. jinpingensis isolates, A. musiformis, and A. sphaeroides. The findings highlight the dual ecological role of NTF as nematophagous and mycoparasitic fungi, underscoring their promise as eco-friendly biocontrol agents in integrated disease management systems.