This paper delves into the challenges posed by Meloidogyne spp nematodes due to
their wide host range, sedentary endoparasitic nature, and propensity to form
dynamic disease complexes with other microorganisms. A pivotal review is explored,
investigating the potential of essential oils (EOs) as an alternative strategy to control
these destructive nematodes. The review aims to categorize essential oil data as
biological nematicides, emphasizing their effects on various nematode species, crops,
compounds, mechanisms of action, and experimental conditions. The identification of
active substances within EOs and the analysis of potential synergistic interactions are
key objectives of this review. Over a 13-year span, the review gathered data from
scientific databases, identifying 37 research papers centered on using essential oils
against Meloidogyne soil nematodes, with a primary focus on M. incognita.
Experiments encompassed diverse host plants, prominently featuring tomatoes,
coleus, rice, bananas, and pepper. The review's analysis showcases specific essential
oils and compounds efficacious against M. incognita, with carvacrol, geraniol,
limonene, and α-pinene standing out for their pronounced nematicidal effects.
Particularly, carvacrol exhibited remarkable efficacy, while geraniol, limonene, and αpinene demonstrated notable influence on nematode mortality and egg hatching
inhibition. The review underscores the significance of comprehending the chemical
attributes of EO compounds in relation to their nematicidal activity. Notably, minor
structural variations can significantly impact their efficacy. Further exploration of
interactions between nematicidal and non-nematicidal terpenes is recommended to
enhance EO effectiveness. The text also delves into the concept of synergies within
essential oil effects, emphasizing intricate compound interactions that could lead to
more potent products, affecting market dynamics and user benefits. The study of
synergistic and antagonistic interactions among essential oil compounds underscores
their intricate mechanisms against nematodes, paving the way for more targeted and
effective natural insecticides.
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