Abstract

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) significantly impair sugarcane production, causing annual losses of approximately 30% and reducing crop longevity. The increasing use of microbial agents in nematode management highlights their potential as key tools in integrated control strategies. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of different commercial biological products on the population density of Meloidogyne javanica and on the development of sugarcane (variety RB 867515). Three greenhouse experiments were conducted using six treatments: Nemix C® (Bacillus subtilis + Bacillus licheniformis), Nemat® (Purpureocillium lilacinum), Ecotrich® (Trichoderma harzianum), Serenade® (B. subtilis), NemOut® (B. subtilis + B. licheniformis + T. longibrachiatum), and a control. Across all experiments, the biological products significantly suppressed M. javanica populations, with control rates exceeding 70% in Experiment I, 80% in Experiment II, and 75% in Experiment III. Importantly, none of the treatments negatively affected plant growth, as indicated by fresh and dry shoot mass and fresh root mass. Overall, the evaluated biological products consistently reduced nematode populations while maintaining normal plant development, demonstrating their strong potential for use in sugarcane nematode management.