Genetic resistance to root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne javanica) in eggplant (Solanum melongena)

摘要

AbstractA germplasm collection of 39 eggplantSolanum melongenagenotypes and one accession ofS. torvumwas evaluated for resistance to the root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne javanica) by using controlled greenhouse tests. Different degrees of resistance to the disease caused by this nematode species were observed among the genotypes tested. Complete resistance (no nematode egg mass formation up to 7 weeks after inoculation) was detected in one accession belonging to domesticatedS. melongenaspecies. Good levels of incomplete resistance were also observed in some commercial eggplant genotypes. This is apparently the first report of a source of complete resistance toM. javanicawithin theS. melongenagene pool and our finding could greatly facilitate the incorporation of this trait into commercial eggplant cultivars.S. torvum, previously described as resistant to several root‐knot nematode species (includingM. javanica, M. arenaria, and M. incognita) was also confirmed as a source of resistance to this Brazilian population ofM. javanica.Therefore,S. torvumcan be considered as one of the most promising sources of broad‐spectrum resistance genes against root‐knot nematodes. Broad‐spectrum resistance is of paramount importance for breeding programmes focused on the development of cultivars for tropical and subtropical areas of the world where multiple infestation of soils with distinctMeloidogynespecies is a very commo