Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pacilomyces lilacinus

Q1. What is Paecilomyces lilacinus and how does it work?

A. Paecilomyces lilacinus is a naturally occurring beneficial fungus found in soils worldwide. As a biological nematicide, it controls plant-parasitic nematodes by directly attacking them. The fungus infects and parasitizes the eggs, juveniles, and adult females of nematodes. It works by:

• Penetrating and colonizing nematode eggs, preventing them from hatching

• Infecting second-stage juveniles (J2) in the soil

• Producing enzymes like chitinases and proteases that dissolve the nematode's protective layers

• Persisting in the soil and suppressing nematode populations over time

Q2. Which types of nematodes does Paecilomyces lilacinus control?

A. It is effective against a wide range of economically important plant-parasitic nematodes, including:

• Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.)

• Cyst nematodes (Heterodera spp., Globodera spp.)

• Lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.)

• Reniform nematodes (Rotylenchulus reniformis)

• Burrowing nematodes (Radopholus similis)

• Citrus nematodes (Tylenchulus semipenetrans)

Q3. Which crops can be treated with Paecilomyces lilacinus?

A. It can be used on a broad range of crops, including:

• Vegetables: Tomato, brinjal (eggplant), chilli, capsicum, cauliflower, peas, beans, okra, cucumber

• Fruits: Banana, citrus, pomegranate, grape, apple, papaya

• Field crops: Cereals (wheat, paddy, maize), pulses, oilseeds, cotton, sugarcane

• Plantation crops: Tea, coffee, coconut, arecanut, black pepper

• Spices: Ginger, turmeric

• Tubers: Potato

Q4. What is the mode of action (MOA) of Paecilomyces lilacinus?

A. The fungus acts as a direct parasite of nematodes. When its spores come into contact with nematode eggs or juveniles, they germinate and grow. The fungal hyphae penetrate the nematode's body, proliferate throughout it, and eventually paralyze and kill the nematode. Unlike chemical nematicides, it does not produce toxins harmful to other organisms and is environmentally benign.

Q5. How do I apply Paecilomyces lilacinus? What are the different application methods and dosages?

A. There are several application methods depending on your crop and stage. Always refer to the specific product label, but here are general guidelines:

Q6. When is the best time to apply Paecilomyces lilacinus?

A. For best results, timing is important:

• Apply 7-10 days before transplanting or at early growth stages

• For soil application, apply at the time of soil preparation or before planting

• Apply 20 days after planting, followed by a second application 30 days later

• Some recommendations suggest applying 3-4 times at 4-5 day intervals for heavy infestations

• For perennial crops, multiple applications throughout the season are recommended

Q7. Is Paecilomyces lilacinus safe for humans, animals, and the environment?

A. Yes, with certain precautions.

• The commercial biocontrol strain (e.g., strain 251) has been tested and shows no toxicity or pathogenicity in rodents. It does not survive at human body temperature, and minimal exposure is expected when label directions are followed.

• However, Paecilomyces lilacinus can be an opportunistic pathogen in severely immunocompromised individuals or after surgical procedures, primarily causing skin or eye infections. Therefore, basic precautions such as wearing gloves and a mask during handling are recommended.

• It is eco-friendly, OMRI-listed, and safe for beneficial soil organisms.

Q8. What precautions should I take when using Paecilomyces lilacinus?

A. Always follow these important precautions:

• Do not mix with chemical fungicides – the fungus is a living organism and will be killed by fungicides

• If chemical fungicides have been used, wait at least 7 days before applying Paecilomyces lilacinus

• Wear gloves and a mask during handling

• Avoid inhalation of the powder/liquid

• Wash hands and face thoroughly after application

• Do not mix with chemical fertilizers if possible

• Keep product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

• Use the entire pack at once if possible for best viability

Q9. How effective is Paecilomyces lilacinus compared to chemical nematicides?

A. Research has shown it to be highly effective as part of an integrated approach:

• Soil drenching at 6.0 kg/ha (first application at sowing, second at 30-60 days) efficiently manages root-knot nematodes and increases yield in cucumber crops

• Best control is achieved by applying 2 to 4 × 10⁹ conidia per plant as a soil treatment one week before planting

• When combined with the fungus Monacrosporium lysipagum, it reduced nematode galls by 62% and juveniles by 94% on tomato

• One strain (P. lilacinum 6887) prevented 97.55% of egg hatching

Q10. Can Paecilomyces lilacinus be used alongside other biological control agents?

A. Yes. It can be integrated with:

• Neem cake – enhances efficacy and creates a suppressive soil microbiome

• Trichoderma – for broader soil health management

• Other beneficial fungi – combined applications often show additive or synergistic effects, such as with M. lysipagum

Q11. What commercial products are available and where can I buy them?

A. Several products are available in India:

• Nemtox: Buy Online here

Products are available on platforms like BigHaat, IndiaMART, and direct from manufacturers.

Q12. What is the shelf life and how should I store the product?

A. When stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, most talc-based formulations remain effective for up to 12 months. For extended storage, refrigeration at 4°C is recommended. Liquid formulations have a shorter shelf life and should be used within the period mentioned on the label. Always check the expiry date before use.

Q13. Is Paecilomyces lilacinus the same as Purpureocillium lilacinum?

A. Yes. The fungus was renamed Purpureocillium lilacinum based on recent genetic studies that distinguished it from true Paecilomyces species, but it is still commonly referred to by its former name in agricultural products.