A recent study from Vietnam has identified three indigenous bacterial strains with remarkable ability to suppress root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in Malabar spinach (Basella alba), a widely consumed vegetable in the country. The findings offer a promising biological alternative to chemical nematicides traditionally used by farmers.
Researchers isolated and screened bacterial strains from vegetable-growing soils in Ho Chi Minh City and Đồng Nai Province. Among all isolates, Bacillus velezensis BHMT4.1, Staphylococcus carnosus CCMT2.1, and Pseudomonas fluorescens HMMT1.1 demonstrated the strongest potential in both nematode control and plant growth promotion.
In-Vitro Nematicidal Effects
The study reports clear suppressive effects on second-stage juveniles (J2) of Meloidogyne spp.:
- B. velezensis BHMT4.1: 68.67% immobilization of J2
- P. fluorescens HMMT1.1: 66.67% immobilization
- S. carnosus CCMT2.1: 42.67% inhibition of egg hatching after 7 days
Additionally, B. velezensis BHMT4.1 produced the most siderophores, while P. fluorescens HMMT1.1 showed the strongest nitrogen-fixation ability.
Greenhouse Results: Reduced Galling and Improved Plant Growth
When tested in greenhouse pots, the strains significantly lowered root gall formation and nematode numbers:
- S. carnosus CCMT2.1 reduced galling to just 16.29% (control: 91.88%)
- Nematode density dropped from 66.66 to 45.20 individuals per 50 g soil after 28 days
The bacterial treatments also enhanced plant performance:
- Increased plant height
- Greater number of leaves
- Higher root fresh weight compared to nematode-only plants
These results confirm that indigenous soil bacteria not only suppress nematodes but also promote healthier crop growth.
Potential for Sustainable Biopesticide Development
The authors conclude that these native rhizobacteria can serve as effective biological control agents. With additional field validation, they could be formulated into commercial biopesticides—supporting Vietnam’s move toward sustainable and eco-friendly agriculture.
Reference
Tran, V.T., Cao, H.T., Duong, H.K. et al. Selection of indigenous bacterial strains having the ability to promote plant growth and control root-knot nematode Meloidogyne spp. on Malabar spinach in Vietnam. Int Microbiol (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10123-025-00739-3
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