Nematocidal principles in "oakmoss absolute" and nematocidal activity of 2,4-dihydroxybenzoates

Nematocidal principles obtained from oakmoss absolute were identified as methyl 2,4-dihydroxy-3,6-di-methylbenzoate (2), ethyl 3-formyl-2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate (4), and ethyl 5-chloro-3-formyl-2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate (7). In relation to their structures, the nematocidal activity of 2,4-dihydroxybenzoates of methyl to tetradecyl was tested and the strongest activity was found in the octyl ester (minimal lethal concentration = 13 microM).