Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Anthurium cut flowers are an economically important ornamental crop in Hawai’i, but their production is threatened by the burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis , which reduces yield and increases production costs. This study evaluated the nematicidal potential of crude extract from ground papaya seed (PGS CE), a local agricultural by-product that contains glucosinolates that hydrolyze into benzyl isothiocyanate, active against R. similis . Greenhouse trials demonstrated that monthly drenches with 0.5 or 1.0% PGS CE significantly reduced R. similis population densities in both roots and cinder media, decreased root lesion severity, and increased leaf production without phytotoxicity or adverse effects on free-living bacterivorous nematodes. While 1.0% PGS CE slightly reduced plant biomass, 0.5% PGS CE improved plant growth and flower production. Regression analysis supported the link between nematode suppression and enhanced anthurium health. Thus, PGS CE presents a sustainable, locally available, and effective biofumigant for nematode management in anthurium, warranting further optimization and future field-scale validation.
Source: Journal of Nematology
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $400
Funder: Western SARE
Award: G828312586
OpenAlex ID: W7160377366