INFLUENCE OF ROOT-GALL NEMATODE DISEASE ON MUCILAGINOUS PROPERTY AND NUTRIENT COMPOSITION OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L. moench)
AGU . *
Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, P. M. B 1526 Imo State.
C. O. MBUKA *
Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, P. M. B 1526 Imo State.
V. E. OGWUDIRE *
Department of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, P. M. B 1526 Imo State.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Effects of root-gall nematode infection and okra variety on mucilaginous property and nutrient composition of okra were studied in 2007 and 2008 cropping seasons. The experiment was a 2x4 factorial arranged in randomized complete block design with 4 replications. Viscometer and standard official methods of analysis (AOAC,1990) were respectively used to determine mucilaginous property and nutrient composition on immature fresh fruits harvested 6 days after anthesis. Results showed that root-gall nematode infection significantly (P=0.05) reduced percentage moisture content, fat, calcium, sodium and mucilaginous property of okra fruits. Phosphorus and nitrogen contents were on the other hand enhanced by the infection. Neither okra variety nor root-gall nematode infection affected ash, magnesium and potassium contents of the fruits.
Keywords: Okra variety,, root-gall nematode infection, mucilaginous property, nutrient composition.