Root-knot nematode infestations in okra fields in the forest savanna transition and moist semi-deciduous forest agro-ecologies of Ghana

2017

English

A survey study was conducted in six major okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) growing districts of Ghana between August and December 2014, to assess the prevalence, incidence and severity of root-knot disease in okra incited by root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne species. Fifty four sole okra fields were purposively selected from 18 localities for the study. On an acre okra field, 25 representative plants were systematically sampled, and assessed for incidence and degree of knotting following a rating scale 0 to 10. Seventy six percent of the okra fields assessed were found positive for root-knot nematodes infestation. Seventy eight, 67, 67, 89, 100 and 56% root-knot nematodes infestation prevalence were recorded in the Kintampo North, Atebubu Amantin, Wenchi, Ejura Sekyedumase, Offinso North and Atwima Nwabiagya Districts, respectively. The highest infestation incidence (95%) was recorded at Sentiatia in the Offinso North District while the lowest (22%) was recorded at Amponsakrom in the Wenchi District. Galling indices (severity of infestation) ranged between 5 and 8 across the districts. The root-knot nematodes infestation menace in okra is becoming endemic in most prominent okra growing localities across the surveyed areas. Sustainable management strategies must be designed by crop protectionists and disseminated among okra farmers against root-knot nematodes infestation in okra.

Danso, Y.; Kwoseh, C.