Effect of citric species seed extracts on the phytopathogen fungus mycelial growth.

Abstract

The antimicrobial activity of extracts of seeds of Citrus paradisi L and Citrus aurantium on the phytopathogenic fungi Curvularia sp, Phytoptora sp, Colletrotichum sp was evaluated. The inhibitory effect of the different extracts was measured on the mycelial growth, by agar diffusion methods; the presence of secondary metabolites such as triterpenes glycosides was identified. A different response was observed in the mycelial growth of the evaluated strains, being more active against the Curbularia sp. The differences observed are explained by the specificities of each strain in terms of growth and multiplication dynamics, as well as their ability to metabolize or inactivate the different metabolites present in the extracts applied. The results suggest that citrus seeds are a source of metabolites, with antimicrobial potential in the control of phytopathogens of agricultural importance.