In Brazil, the reniform nematode is a major disease problem of the cotton crop, causing damages of more than 60% in production. One management method aimed at reducing the damage caused by this nematode specie is the use of non-host plants that are used as soil improving crops. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the hospitability of species of soil improving crops to parasitism of Rotylenchulus reniformis. A total of 11 plant species used as soil improving crops were evaluated, along with cotton 'CD 401' (Gossypium hirsutum) as a control of susceptibility. The statistical design was completely randomized with 10 replications. Among the 11 species evaluated, Stylosanthes 'Campo Grande' (Stylosantes capitata x S. macrocephala), Brachiaria ruziziensis, dwarf velvet bean (Mucuna deeringiana) sorghum 'SI-3204' (Sorghum vulgare) and moha grass (Setaria italica) behaved as resistant. The corn 'IPR115' (Zea mays), millet 'BRS1501' (Pennisetum glaucum), and finger millet (Eleusine coracana) behaved as immune. However, the pigeon pea 'IAPAR43' (Cajanus cajan) and pigeon pea 'Fava Larga' (C. cajan) behaved as susceptible, with an average number of eggs more than the control. Thus, it was concluded that the species Sorghum vulgare, Setaria italica, B. ruziziensis, M. deeringiana, Z. mays, P. glaucum, E. coracana and Stylosanthes Campo Grande, can be used as an option in the management of R. reniformis becoming a cost effective alternative for the producer, because it may decrease the population of this nematode.
Reniform nematode; cultural control; sustainable management