Effect of (E)-chalcone on potato-cyst nematodes (Globodera pallida and G-rostochiensis)

Among soil-borne plant diseases, nematodes are responsible for large crop losses. Conventional control methods are currently based on the use of low-specificity neurotoxic compounds, such as carbamates, and phosphorylated and halogenated organic compounds. Some of these substances cause global environmental problems; for example, methyl bromide has a destructive effect on the ozone layer and its production is being restricted. (E)-Chalcone (trans-1,3-diphenylpropenone) was found highly toxic for phytoparasitic nematodes (CL50 = 33 mu M), acting also as a potent inhibitor of nematode hatch (HIC50 = 7 mu M). (E)-Chalcone provides new insight in the search for novel environmentally sound alternatives to conventional nematicidal compounds.