In Vitro Nematocidal Effect of Leaf and Seed Extracts of Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) against Meloidogyne incognita

Abstract

This study assessed the in vitro nematocidal effectiveness of Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) leaf and seed extracts against Meloidogyne incognita, a major root-knot nematode infesting tomato crops in Katsina State, Nigeria. Meloidogyne incognita was isolated from infected tomato roots and identified through morphological and perineal pattern analysis. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, sterols, tannins, and terpenoids. In vitro bioassays showed that extracts, especially the combined leaf and seed extract (JWLSE), achieved significantly higher nematode mortality than controls, with a mean mortality of 10.40 (±8.45) at 24 hours. ANOVA results indicated that plant part, concentration, exposure time, and their interactions significantly affected nematode mortality (p < 0.001), explaining 99.6% of the variability (R² = 0.996). Mortality increased progressively with time, underscoring the time-dependent efficacy of the extracts. The findings support the potential of D. stramonium as a natural, environmentally friendly nematicide. It is recommended that further research focus on field trials to optimize application rates and formulations, promoting sustainable nematode management in tomato production.