LAUSR

This research explores the occurrence and diversity of fungi associated with root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) infestations on tomato crops in bioclimatic zones of Tunisia. One hundred and thirty five tomato samples (roots and soil) collected between 2011 to 2013 from tomato fields were screened for Oomycetes and other fungi. A high level of fungal diversity was found in the presence of Meloidogyne spp. A total of 31 fungal species belonging to 17 different genera were recovered from roots and soil samples collected in fields infested with root-knot nematode. The most frequent fungal species associated with the nematode was Fusarium oxysporum (11%) followed by Fusarium solani (6%). The species composition was dependent on environmental conditions. Temperature seems to be important as the rhizosphere microflora in the Kebili and Tozeur areas with ‘saharien’ bioclimatic stages was different from other localities. Our findings may be valuable for predicting this disease complex.