Research Papers: Effects of the Nematicides Aldicarb, Aldoxycarb and DBCP on Nematode Control and Yield of Bananas

Abstract

The effects of the nematicides Aldicarb (Temik 10G), Aldoxycarb (Standak 75 PM) and DBCP (Fumazone 86 E) on control of plant-parasitic nematodes and yield of a seven-year-old banana (Musa acuminata AAA, cv. Giant Cavendish) plantation, were studied in Guacimo, Costa Rica. The results of a 24 months root sampling revealed that the chemicals caused a significant reduction of Radopholus and Helicotylenchus populations when compared to a control without nematicidal treatment. The most efficient product was Aldicarb, at rates of 3 and 6g ai/unit of production (the mother plant and its descendants). This product, at 3g ai/unit of production, also gave the best results regarding number of bunches and yield. There were no significant differences among treatments in the weight and the ripening period of the bunches or in the number of hands/bunch. DBCP was effective for control of nematodes but not for other variables. Aldoxicarb, at 9g ai/unit of production, significantly increased the pseud