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Home Research Projects Biofumigation Seed meals as a biopesticides Glucosinolate hydrolysis Brassicaceae plow-downs Publications Investor Information Links Heavy Metal Biogeochemistry Pesticides in Costa Rica Research Group Publications Instrumentation Assistanships |
B I O F U M I G A T I O N Biopesticides/Plant-Derived Allelochemicals Plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, mustard, rapeseed, and horseradish contain organic compounds called glucosinolates. When the tissues of these plants are damaged, biologically active chemicals are produced. One of the most important compounds released is isothiocyanate (ITC). The pungency of horseradish and the spicy taste of hot mustard are caused by ITCs released when the tissues are macerated. At low concentrations ITCs are considered beneficial to human health. At high concentrations ITCs are general biocides that behave much like commercial pesticides. In fact, several commercial pesticides including Dazomet, Vapam, and Vorlex depend on an ITC as the active ingredient for pest control.  .jpg)
Our research group at the University of Idaho has been conducting biofumigation research with rapeseed and mustard plants since 1988 and we have published 24 peer-refereed manuscripts on the topic. We are part of the University of Idaho's comprehensive program in mustard and rapeseed research, a program that includes efforts in soil science, plant breeding, weed science, entomology, plant pathology, agronomy, and engineering. Our work is focused not only on the fundamental chemistry and biochemistry involved in pest suppression, but on practical application of the technology. You can find out more about our research by exploring the links on this page or by contacting Dr. Matthew J. Morra.  Short clip describing mustard meal as a biopesticide. Window Media player required. [ download ] |
Matthew J. Morra About Contact |
| Matthew J. Morra mmorra@uidaho.edu Phone: 208-885-6315 FAX: 208-885-7760 |
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