Chapter 19, Problem 8PS

Summary Introduction

To describe: The experiments that could show that fungus, Myrothecium verucaria, is an effective biological control against kudzu and the fungus will not harm desirable species as soybeans that are close relatives of kudzu.

Concept introduction: Myrothecium verucaria is a common plant pathogen. It is used in the biological control of nematodes and weeds. The active molecule is diacetylverrucarol that is produced by Myrothecium verucaria. Diacetylverrucarol causes retardation of plant growth, wilting, chlorosis, and necrosis of plants. Kudzu and soybeans are included in the pea family Fabaceae. Kudzus are invasive plant species and are noxious weeds. Kudzus are perennial vines that climb over trees and shrubs. Thus, covering them densely and preventing their photosynthesis, resulting in their death. Diacetylverrucarol is an active ingredient of the pesticide against nematodes and weeds like kudzus.