Abstract

Studies on the root nematodes of Musa spp. in Nsukka Agro-ecological zone of Enugu state, Nigeria, was carried out in sixteen towns located in this zone. The study involved collecting data on the distribution, incidence and abundance of nematode parasites on Musa spp., generating information on geo-physical, agricultural and historical data in the study area, examining nematode egg mass burden in Musa spp. roots and determining the physico-chemical properties of the soil as well as evaluating thier relationships with nematode density. This was obtained through questionnaire admistration to the farmers and root sample collection from sixteen towns in the study area. The collection of the root samples were done from tree villages in each town, three sites in each village and three sampling units in each site giving rise to 144 units each for Musa spp. (Banana and plantain). Both cluster and statified random sampling methods were used to collect root samples. The soil samples were used for physico-chemical analyses and nematode extraction. The Baerman’s funnel method was used to estimate the nematode population in the root and soil samples. Data generated were subjected to descriptive statistics involving two way analysis of variance, calculation of means and standard deviation, the least significant differences at 5% probability level. Regression analysis was performed with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results of field survey showed that on the average, 67.51% of  Musa spp. were grown in homestead while 24.65% were grown in farmlands, with 7.87% grown in the wild. Nematode parasites were evenly distributed with Meloidogyne spp and Radopholus similis as the most dominant and diverse species. Integrated management concept among other recommendations were proffered to reduce or probabily eliminate the spread of nematode parasite and inproved yield of the Musa spp. plant.

Key words: Root nematodes, distribution, physico-chemical properties, Musa spp., Nsukka Agro-ecological zone.