Fungi and Compost Team Up to Fight Plant Nematodes

In the world of farming, tiny worms called plant‑parasitic nematodes can cause big problems for crops. Scientists have found that certain fungi, known as nematophagous fungi (NF), can help keep these worms in check. A new review looked at how combining these fungi with organic matter—like compost or mulch—might work better than using either alone. The researchers followed a strict method to pick studies. They started with over 600 papers and ended up keeping just 33 that met their criteria. This careful selection gives confidence that the conclusions are solid. Trichoderma fungi are the most common choice in commercial products. In studies that added organic matter, Paecilomyces fungi appeared more often. Other types of fungi—such as Talaromyces, Pochonia, and Arthrobotrys—are rarely used in real field settings even though they show promise in the lab.The partnership between fungi and organic matter seems to help the fungi colonise plant roots more effectively. This, in turn, boosts enzymes that break down soil components and improves overall soil health. The right kind and amount of organic matter, the choice of fungal species, the local soil conditions, and when the materials are added all influence how well the system works. Beyond fighting nematodes, these fungi also help recycle nitrogen and keep soil structure stable. That means they offer multiple benefits to farms, not just pest control. However, many questions remain. Scientists still need more data on how these combinations perform in large‑scale farms and whether they are cost‑effective for farmers. Understanding the exact biological mechanisms at play will also help improve future products. Overall, pairing fungi with compost shows promise for a greener way to protect crops. This approach could align with global goals like reducing hunger, using resources wisely, fighting climate change, and protecting land ecosystems.