Abstract
<jats:p>Parasitic nematodes are some of the most harmful plant pathogens, and their detrimental impact on crops is increasing in Kyrgyzstan. Notably, the potato stem nematode (Ditylenchus destructor) and the stalk garlic nematode (Ditylenchus dipsaci) threaten economically essential crops such as potatoes, garlic, sugar beets, and rice. Losses for these crops exceed 50% of the total harvest. Chemical nematicides are used in large quantities to fight them, but the high risk of environmental pollution leads to the search for an alternative way. Predatory fungi that create specialized traps and use nematodes as food are particularly valuable. Arthrobotry’s oligospora Fres (Orbiliomycetes) is the best-known species that performs this function as an active biological agent in the fight against parasitic nematodes. This study aimed to isolate and identify predatory fungi from various natural objects using classical mycology alongside modern molecular methods. In vitro and in vivo screening of potential predatory fungal isolates was conducted to select highly effective strains for the control of parasitic nematodes. A total of 12 natural isolates of Arthrobotrys oligospora were assessed for their predatory efficacy against garlic and potato stem nematodes.</jats:p>