In Vivo and In Vitro Grown Lemon-Scented Gum as a Source of Nematicidal Essential Oil Compounds

Area of Science:

• Plant Chemistry
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Corymbia citriodora essential oils (EOs) are rich in bioactive compounds like citronellal and citronellol.
• These EOs have potential applications in biopesticides due to their biological activities.
• The pinewood nematode (PWN) poses a significant threat to forestry and agriculture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro nematicidal activity of C. citriodora EOs and their main volatile compounds against PWN.
• To assess the environmental and human health impact of these compounds.
• To explore in vitro propagation as a sustainable source for nematicidal EOs.

Main Methods:

• Extraction and chemical characterization of C. citriodora EOs from in vivo and in vitro plants.
• In vitro nematicidal assays against Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (PWN).
• Environmental and toxicological risk assessment using experimental data and predictive software.

Main Results:

• Citronellal and citronellol demonstrated significant nematicidal activity, with EC50 values comparable to synthetic pesticides.
• C. citriodora EOs exhibited favorable safety profiles, showing reduced environmental persistence and toxicity.
• In vitro propagated C. citriodora shoots yielded EOs with high citronellal and citronellol content and potent nematicidal activity (EC50 = 0.239 mg/mL).

Conclusions:

• C. citriodora EOs are a viable and sustainable source of natural nematicides.
• These EOs offer an environmentally friendly and health-conscious alternative for managing PWN.
• The study highlights the potential of in vitro plant systems for scalable production of biopesticides.