In Vitro evaluation of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) as a fungicide against wood rotting basidiomycetes

Abstract

The crude extract of the shell of cashew nut obtained from the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) was evaluated in vitro for fungitoxicity against Coriolopsis polyzona, Pycnoporus sanguineus, Ganoderma lucidum and Lenzites palisoti that cause serious decay on wood in Nigeria. Growth of the four pathogens in the medium of cassava dextrose agar (CDA) containing eight different concentrations of CNSL at levels of 400ppm, 800ppm, 1600ppm, 2000ppm, 2400 ppm, 2800ppm and 3200ppm was also studied. Most of the levels of CNSL concentrations exhibited potent antifungal activity against all the four pathogens. Of the four test fungi, Coriolopsis polyzona was the most resistant. The growths of the pathogens were highly inhibited at higher concentrations. The cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) was found to possess fungitoxic properties against the pathogens at 1600ppm concentration level, though, lower concentrations of 800ppm and 1200ppm reduced the radial growth of the other test fungi except Coriolopsis polyzona. Use role of the crude extract of CNSL in controlling wood decay pathogens is suggested.


Key Words: Cashew nut; In vitro; fungicide; wood rotting basidiomycetes; shell liquid


Moor J. Agric. Res. Vol.4(1) 2003: 131-134