MUSUAN, Bukidnon—Indigenous plants can be a source of biopesticides for vegetable diseases, based on a study.
Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, Dr. Florfe M. Acma, Professor Cecilia V. Bautista, Mr. Chris Rey M. Lituañas, Mr. Rainear A. Mendez, Ms. Iris R. Pescadero, all of Central Mindanao University and Balik Scientist Dr. Annabelle P. Villalobos conducted the study.
The researchers screened ten species of plants for their phytochemicals in vivo and in vitro against two fungal pathogens─Alternaria brassicae and Phytophtra infestans.
Compounds present in the screened plants such as phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids and their efficacy against the said pathogens were studied.
Data derived from the study and those from other initial field studies have identified Tasmania piperita (Hook.f.) as a promising plant species for biopesticide prototype product development.
Extracts of the said plant species proved to be consistent when its various constituents were separated through chromatography.
From the extracts, the researchers developed two product prototypes labelled as Product A and Product B. These prototypes were studied for their antifungal activity.
The researchers subjected the prototypes to a fly test and determined their resistance to change in terms of chemical and physical structure (thermostability) and to the influence of radiant energy (photostability).
Based on these tests, the products proved to be effective against Alternaria brassicae and Phytophtra infestans when used in lower dilution at 1:15/1:25.
Better results were shown, though, for both products in higher dilution at 1:10,000 when the products were tested for their ingredients and quality. Moreover, the biopesticides developed from indigenous plants, is environment-friendly, safe for humans and for non-target organisms, cheap, and locally available.
Studies also showed that while both products have a shelf life of 12 months, product A proved to be more resistant in terms of thermostability and photostability.
The project on Screening of Indigenous Plants as Biopesticides and the Development of Product for Vegetable Diseases was funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). It is one of the three finalists for the research category of the National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD).
Organized by DOST-PCAARRD, the NSAARRD recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals and institutions in improving the state of research and development in the country for the interest of the agriculture, aquatic and natural resources sector.
Held yearly, the NSAARRD is one of the highlights of the PCAARRD anniversary celebration.
DOST-PCAARRD will celebrate its seventh year anniversary on June 22, 2018 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City.