Determination of the phytochemical and biofungicide characteristics of Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) against Neofusicoccum sp. that damages post-harvest avocados (Persea americana Mill)

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of leaf, stem, and fruit plant extracts of Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) on Neofusicoccum sp.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Methanol extractions of Peruvian pepper tree were used to determine its phytochemical profile. The inhibition caused by the plant extracts was evaluated at a 0.01, 0.03, and 0.07% concentration, using the in vitro poisoned agar technique against the phytopathogen isolated from post-harvest avocados.

Results: Saponins, coumarins, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity recorded positive results. Stem obtained better ABTS inhibition results (92.7% ±0.8), while the leaves recorded a better DDPH inhibition result (88.2 ±0.24%). The in vitro assays showed the effects of the extracts on Neofusicoccum sp.: higher concentrations (0.07%) had a better mitigation effect. The inhibition of the pathogen fluctuated between 43.8 and 49.5% for all the plant extracts.

Study Limitations/Implications: Methanol was used as a solvent to obtain S. molle extracts.

Findings/Conclusions: The resulting inhibition was associated with a pseudo-quantitative approach that helped to understand the effect of bioactives against this phytopathogen and to include Schinus molle as an alternative within a biorational plan for the phytosanitary protection of crops.