Control of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum by using jatropha latex

Abstract

White mold, caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, has caused losses in the productivity of several cultures. Thus, the use of less aggressive alternatives to control this fungus has been sought, as an exemplo, using bioactive products. The present study aimed to evaluate the capacity of jatropha latex (Jatropha curcas) for in vitro control of S. sclerotiorum. The concentrations evaluated were 0, 0.5%, 1.0% and 5.0%. All treatments, represented by the latex concentrations of J. curcas were efficient, as they presented a smaller area below the mycelial growth curve in relation to the control treatment. The concentrations of 1.0% and 5.0% showed no statistical difference and the concentration of 0.5% was the one with the lowest rea below the mycelial growth curve. In conclusion, the J. curcas latex was effective in the in vitro control of S. sclerotiorum, and its ideal concentration was 0.5%.