Year 2024, Volume 9, Issue 2
| Year : | 2024 |
| Volume : | 9 |
| Issue : | 2 |
| Authors : | Jelena EĆIMOVIĆ, Slavica VUKOVIĆ, Sanja LAZIĆ, Dragana BOŠKOVIĆ, Aleksandra ŠUŠNJAR, Dragana ŠUNJKA |
| Title : | APPLICATION OF CHITOSAN IN THE CONTROL OF ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT PHYTOPATHOGENIC FUNGI |
| Abstract : | Agricultural producers face numerous challenges today. They must strive to achieve high yields to meet the food demands of the population, while also ensuring the safety of the food. Due to the development of resistance in targeted organisms and the adverse effects chemical pesticides pose to human health and the environment, it is necessary to seek eco-friendly methods for pest control. Chitin is the second most abundant biopolymer on earth, after cellulose. Its deacetylated derivative, chitosan, has some beneficial characteristics that give it the potential to become a biopesticide. Phytopathogenic fungi are a limiting factor in agricultural production, causing significant economic losses. Many researchers have confirmed the fungicidal activity of chitosan and it is progressively asserting its role in integrated pest management. It has different modes of action, such as cell membrane/cell wall disruption, interaction with the DNA of microorganisms, chelation of nutrients necessary for microorganisms, film formation and induction of host plant defense mechanism. In vitro studies have shown that chitosan treatment leads to inhibition of mycelial growth, sporulation, and spore germination of phytopathogenic fungi. It also induces morphological alterations in hyphae and spores and influences the production of fungal virulence factors. Chitosan is applied foliarly, to seed, and as a soil enhancer. Extensive research on the synergistic effects of a mixture of chitosan and conventional fungicides shows potential for reducing the usage of chemical pesticides while effectively controlling pathogens. |
| Keywords : | chitin, chitosan, fungicides, phytopathogenic fungi, biopesticides |
ISSN 2490-3434 (Printed)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
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