Nematicides

What are nematicides?

Agricultural chemicals are introduced to boost the productivity of the modern agriculture sector. It is worth remembering that these new products allow the farmers to grow food crops for the human population and poultry feeding. Nematicides are biochemical agents that have the primary purpose of controlling and eliminating roundworms from the fields, thereby saving food quality. Nematodes are small, or more specifically, microscopic, in nature, that damage plants and food crops if not controlled using advanced techniques. Overall, they can reduce the yield of crops. The nematicides are chemicals made using the right ratio of chemical ingredients that can control these microscopic organisms in different ways. They can decrease their ability to feed on plants. They can hamper biological processes and even become parasites. Therefore, they play a great role in minimizing the impact of these crop-damaging worms and significantly preventing crop losses.

The benefits of using nematicides in agriculture

There are a plethora of benefits related to using nematicides, which are biochemical agents for managing the population of nematodes. First of all, the use of these chemical agents can meaningfully increase crop yield. This in turn helps in preventing heavy economic losses for farmers. Secondly, better quality food production is being found with the use of such natural pesticides. In this way, the premium quality of crops becomes valuable. Also, their use can lead to a stable food supply. Thirdly, organic nematodes are affordable options for farmers and can be used as alternatives to different practices such as crop rotation and planting nematode-resistant species. These are earth-friendly options that do not harm the beneficial organisms present in the biosphere.

Different types of nematicides available?

There are different types of nematicides available on the market for controlling distinct types of nematodes or minute worms. They are available under brands, like Pulse Bio, Dr. Root, BioAce, Panther, and Yorker. They target specific kinds of crops for effective performance. Synthetic or chemical nematicides are artificially formed to kill the nematodes and may contain chemicals like oxamyl. Some biological and plant-based nematicides use either living organisms or plant extracts for killing the worms. Some examples of biological and plant-based nematicides are Pasteurella penetrans and neem oil, respectively. Many a time, some soil amendments are added, such as compost or manure, for a similar purpose without chemically affecting the plant's health.

The use of such chemical and biological agents must be considered in light of their impact on plant, human, and environmental health.

How do nematicides work to control nematodes?

This is undoubtedly an important aspect. Nematicides' working principle must be known to analyze their impacts directly or indirectly on roundworms. The active ingredients present in these agents target the nervous system of nematodes by making them paralyzed, which can ultimately lead to their death in serious conditions. Possibly, different modes of action influence their interference with the roundworms. Some nematicides work by hampering their reproductive processes, thereby stopping their growth.

The environmental impact of nematicides and their alternatives

With the use of nematicides, there are several changes observed in the environment, which show the impact due to these biochemical agents. Soil and water get contaminated with the profuse use of these nematicides, leaving toxic residues behind. Overuse of synthetic nematodes can develop immunity or resistance in nematode populations. Nematicides should be chosen with high attention; otherwise, important microbes and wildlife of the ecosystem may be affected.

There are numerous substitutes for synthetic nematodes, which mainly revolve around biological controls. Using biological methods can keep the environment healthy. Many farmers practise crop rotations and handpicking methods to provide soil health. IPM is a great approach to managing the pests in an emphasised manner. Under this technique, the right combination of cultural and chemical control methods is put into use.

FAQs: Nematicides

Q. When is the best time to apply nematicides?

Ans. It is vital to select the time and season to apply nematicides which proportionately depends on diverse factors such as climate conditions and specific crops. Nematicides are often used weeks before planting in the case of root crops such as fruits and vegetables. In some cases, they are applied after the planting procedure via irrigation. Conclusively, they must be applied by determining the soil temperature which directly influences the nematode's activities.

Q. Are nematodes safe for humans and the environment?

Ans. It depends on the particular type of nematodes made using active ingredients. But more commonly, synthetic nematicides can have a harsh effect on human health if inhaled or absorbed directly, which may result in respiratory problems and skin irritation. Furthermore, they can have toxic impacts on the environment too. Hence, choosing the right product and reading its labels and instructions is an appreciated practice.

Q. Can nematodes be used in organic farming?

Ans. The use of nematodes is commonly not permitted in organic farming, as they are mostly artificially made using different chemicals. Nevertheless, biological and plant-based nematodes can be used by organic field farmers for carrying out the practice of controlling the nematodes. Neem and ginger oils can be used, which surely exhibit nematocidal properties.