Agarophyte Red Algae Extract for Phytopathogenic Nematode Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling phytopathogenic nematodes, such as root-knot nematodes, are either ineffective, environmentally harmful, or have significant side effects, necessitating a safer and more effective alternative.
Innovation Solution
An aqueous liquid product extracted from agarophyte red algae of the Gelidiaceae family, such as Gelidium sesquipedale, is used to control phytopathogenic nematodes by applying it to the soil or plants, utilizing an alkaline extraction process followed by filtration, neutralization, and dilution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synthetic nematocides, fumigants, and non-fumigants are used for pest control, then pest control effectiveness is improved, but harmful side effects on human health and the environment worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using natural algae extracts (beneficial substance) to replace synthetic chemicals (harmful substance). The extract from Gelidium sesquipedale and other agarophyte red algae demonstrates excellent nematocidal activity while being environmentally friendly and safe for human health, thus converting the need for chemical control into a biological control solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses algae extract as an intermediary substance between the farmer's need for pest control and the environment's sensitivity to chemicals. This natural extract mediates the control of phytopathogenic nematodes without the harmful side effects of synthetic nematocides, serving as a bridge between effective pest control and environmental safety.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If biological control methods using natural predators or pathogens are employed, then environmental safety is improved, but control effectiveness may worsen compared to synthetic chemicals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by optimizing the extraction parameters of the algae extract, including using alkaline aqueous solutions with specific pH ranges (0.1-20% by weight, preferably 1-5% sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide), controlling extraction time (30 minutes to 8 hours), and adjusting application concentrations (0.5 to 100 mL per 1000L of water). These parameter optimizations ensure the extract achieves excellent nematocidal activity comparable to or exceeding synthetic chemicals while maintaining environmental safety.
3Reliability
If crop rotation with non-host crops is used, then nematode infestation is reduced, but productivity worsens due to loss of susceptible crop seasons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by applying the algae extract to the soil or substrate before planting susceptible crops. This preliminary treatment creates a protective environment that prevents nematode infestation from the outset, allowing farmers to plant their desired susceptible crops without the need for rotation to non-host crops, thus maintaining productivity while achieving nematode control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The agarophyte red alga extract effectively reduces nematode infestation, minimizing environmental impact and maintaining crop health, with notable nematode reduction activity starting at dilutions as low as 1/1000.
Implementation Method 1
an aqueous liquid product extracted by an alkaline aqueous solution of at least one agarophyte red alga
Implementation Method 2
extraction of said red algae with an alkaline aqueous solution followed by filtration to recover said aqueous phase
Implementation Method 3
followed by filtration to recover said aqueous phase
Implementation Method 4
The alkaline aqueous phase obtained after filtration may have been neutralized by an acid, in particular nitric acid, sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
Use of an aqueous liquid product extracted by an alkaline aqueous solution from at least one agarophyte red alga of the Gelidiaceae family, such as Gelidium sesquipedale, as a control agent against phytopathogenic nematodes. The extraction product is, in particular, the aqueous phase obtained by extraction of said red alga with an alkaline aqueous solution, followed by filtration to recover said aqueous phase, which may then have been concentrated, dehydrated, or freeze-dried, and then reconstituted in water for application.