A Novel Robust Screening Assay Identifies Strains as Reliable Antagonists of the Root-Knot Nematode .

Forty-four bacterial strains isolated from greenhouse soil and beetroots were tested for their antagonistic activity against the plant-parasitic root-knot nematode (RKN) , which causes significant yield losses in a number of important crops worldwide. Through a novel combination of in vitro and on planta screening assays, spp. 105 and 108 were identified as the most promising bacterial isolates. Both strains were evaluated for their potential to control different RKN population densities and as root protectants against nematode infestation. Regardless of the application method, both strains significantly reduced root galling caused by . These two strains were subjected to whole genome sequencing and de novo genome assembly as a basis for phylogenetic and future functional characterization. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that both strains cluster within the clade among previously characterized RKN antagonists and -based biocontrol agents of plant diseases.