Nematode Management Prospects in Composting

Management of nematode pests of agricultural crops is important to maximize crop yield and reduce economic losses. Composting is a natural process of recycling organic wastes and it involves the natural biological decomposition of organic matter which is facilitated by naturally occurring microorganisms. Compositing is an anaerobic process that consists of decomposition and mineralization of mixed organic composites for soil humification, thereby enriching soil plant nutrients. The prospect of using compost as a management option for plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) is gaining attention in recent times. Its role in driving the increased diversity in beneficial nematodes, species richness, and bio-functional activities have contributed to its prospect as a useful practice that can suppress nematode population in agriculture soil. The varying sensitivity of nematodes to the changing processes of composting is vital to the emergence of biotypes with trophically diverse attributes that are adaptable for use in soil PPN management. Soil nematodes play an important role in nutrient cycling and availability through decomposition. Nematodes are also considered as bio-indicators in the stability and maturity of the compost. However, PPN are debilitating pests of agricultural importance whose damage often results in significant yield and economic losses. Therefore, their management is critical to keep their populations under control and preventing crop losses. This chapter provides basic insights into the PPN management by using compost, compost preparation, and how composting could be utilized as a viable managing option.