MUSUAN, Bukidnon—Indigenous plants can be source of biopesticides for vegetable diseases, a study revealed.

Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, Dr. Florfe M. Acma, Prof. Cecilia V. Bautista, Chris Rey M. Lituañas, Rainear A. Mendez, Iris R. Pescadero, all from Central Mindanao University, and Balik Scientist Dr. Annabelle P. Villalobos, conducted the study.

The researchers screened 10 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 plant proved to be consistent when its various constituents were separated through chromatography.

From the extracts, the researchers developed two product prototypes labeled as Product A and Product B. The 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 the 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 nontarget 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 placed first 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.