Biological control of Plant-parasitic nematodes in Bananas using Trichoderma atroviride and cocoa-based organic amendments

DOI: 10.22161/ijeab.105.19

Abstract:
This study evaluates the combined use of the endophytic fungus Trichoderma atroviride (strains Endo 1 and Endo 2) and cocoa (Theobroma cacao) organic amendments for managing plant-parasitic nematodes in three banana cultivars: Boniface, Grand Nain, and Williams. Field experiments were conducted on a commercial banana farm in Costa Rica using a randomized block design. Treatments involved applying fungal spores and cocoa amendments bi-monthly over a six-week interval. Results revealed no statistically significant differences in total nematode populations among treatments; however, the combined application of T. atroviride and organic amendments reduced nematode populations more effectively than control plots. Improvements were also observed in root health and plant growth parameters over time. This suggests a potential, though not conclusive, synergistic effect of these biocontrol agents. Further long-term studies are recommended to better understand their independent and combined effects on nematode management in bananas.

Keywords:
endophytic fungi, organic amendments, plant-parasitic nematodes, root health, banana cultivation

Article Info:
Received: 01 Sep 2025; Received in revised form: 02 Oct 2025; Accepted: 07 Oct 2025; Available online: 16 Oct 2025

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