Allelochemicals and their importance
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Allelochemicals are secondary plant metabolites capable of influencing the growth, development, and metabolism of other plants, microorganisms, or insects in their immediate environment. These substances are a key mechanism in the phenomenon of allelopathy, which refers to chemical interactions between organisms that can be either positive or negative. In agriculture, allelochemicals are increasingly being studied as potential environmentally friendly agents for the management of weeds, pests, and diseases, thereby reducing the need for synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Additionally, their use can contribute to crop rotation improvements and soil health preservation through the regulation of microbial communities. This paper provides an overview of the basic characteristics of allelochemicals, their mechanisms of action, and the possibilities of their application in modern agroecosystems, with the aim of enhancing sustainability and productivity in agriculture. The introduction of plants with strong allelopathic properties into cropping systems, such as cover crops, may play a significant role in sustainable agriculture and agroecological practices. However, the use of allelochemicals requires detailed research due to their selectivity, persistence in the soil, and potential negative effects on beneficial organisms.
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Life on land, Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7124124332