Community structure of plant parasitic nematodes associated with black pepper in Idukki district (Kerala), India

Random survey and seventy six soil samples were collected from black pepper rhizosphere from different locations of taluk viz., Thodupuzha, Devikulam, Udumbanchola and Peermedu of Idukki district to determine the present status and distribution of plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) associated with black pepper. Total nine PPN were found in all taluk. Among them, six PPN were found in each Thodupuzha, Devikulam and Udumbanchola, whereas four in Peermedu. Plant parasitic nematodes were most frequent, abundant and prominent in Devikulam and Thodupuzha taluk, while less in Peermedu taluk. A minimum of one and a maximum of five PPN were recorded in a location. R. similis was the most frequent, abundant and prominent in Peermedu and less in Udumbanchola taluk.