Researchers from the Ministry of Science and Technology will make use of natural resources
The Agriculture, Aquatic Biology and Natural Resources Research and Development Board (DOST-PCAARRD) of the Department of Science and Technology of the Philippines has recently approved a new research project to use the extract of Tasmannia piperita (Hook. F.) Miers in Australia to make a fungicide for the control of black spot in lettuce and Phytophthora in tomatoes.
The project is led by Dr. Victor B. Amoroso of the University of Central Mindanao in Bukinnon Province, Philippines. DOST-PCAARRD recently held a project launch meeting for the project and inspected field monitoring.
Project leader Dr. Victor Amoroso explains the field inspection project of natural fungicides during the project launch meeting (Image: Fulgent P. Cortico, Central University of Mindanao)
The source of this natural fungicide ingredient, T. piperita, is a dicotyledonous plant that grows on ridges or in high-altitude bryophytes. According to Dr. Amoroso, this natural fungicide extracted from plant leaves is inexpensive and environmentally friendly, and can be obtained locally. The conclusion is based onPlant extractsThis is based on extensive research.
However, if the plant is overexploited for large-scale production of fungicides, it will cause the plant to become extinct in nature, so artificial breeding is required. In addition to field testing of the natural fungicide, the project will also use seeds, wild plant resources and tissue culture to cultivate the plant in large quantities.
The Energy Development Corporation (EDC) in Kidapawan, Philippines, will assist in the promotion of this resource by providing cooperative farmers with seedlings for breeding, which can later be sold to fungicide producers.
The research team hopes to expand the production of fungicides by training farmers to breed the plant, while providing employment opportunities for local residents.
