The endophytic Streptomyces enissocaesilis OM182843 was
investigated for its antagonistic activity against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne
incognita) as well as its ability to produce plant growth regulators. The
nematicidal activity was performed using both culture and crude culture filtrate
(CCF) of Strep. enissocaesilis. Both caused high mortality and inhibition of egghatching of M. incognita during all experimental intervals. Hydrolytic enzymes
(chitinases, proteases and gelatinase), as well as plant growth regulators (indole
acetic acid, gibberellic acid, salicylic acid, and proline), were produced by Strep.
enissocaesilis in considerable quantities. Furthermore, volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) released by Strep. enissocaesilis were analyzed by GC/MS
and several of them were found to have nematicidal activity, the most abundant
being 2,4-Decadienal, (E, Z) (CAS). This study opens new horizons for thinking
about the use of microorganisms to combat pathogens such as root-knot
nematodes, which avoid the harmful effects of synthetic nematicides, not only this
but also can stimulate plant growth and thus provide a double benefit.