Résumé
Background: The root-knot nematode Meloidogyne paranaensis is one of the main phytosanitary problems in coffee crops, as it causes premature death of plants. In localities in central Veracruz, Coffea canephora plants tolerant to this nematode have been detected, which can be used as rootstocks in infested areas. Objective: To select plants that show tolerance in the field and to isolate and identify fungi associated with the rhizosphere of these coffee plants. Methodology: Plants infested with nematodes were selected and root samples were taken to quantify population density and corroborate the species. Fungi were isolated and identified from the rhizosphere soil. Five fungi were selected to observe the in vitro infection process on M. paranaensis eggs. Results: 18 plants that showed tolerance to M. paranaensis were selected. Twenty strains of fungi belonging to 7 genera and 16 species were obtained. The genera Penicillium and Fusarium were the most frequent. Clonostachys rogersoniana was the only fungus that showed parasitism against M. paranaensis eggs in vitro. Implications: The 18 selected plants show tolerance in the field, and it is necessary to conduct tests with controlled inoculations of M. paranaensis with clones and progeny. Tests on the nematophagous capacity of C. rogersoniana should continue. Conclusion: In the study area there are plants with tolerance to M. paranaensis and they can be used as rootstocks. The fungus C. rogersoniana is capable of infesting M. paranaensis eggs and is a potential biological control agent for this nematode.