Terpenes from coniferous trees as non-toxic alternative to synthetic pesticides against agricultural pathogens and pestsThe urgent need to replace synthetic pesticides in agriculture emerges from spreading of invasive plant diseases and European Union (EU) restrictions. The project will assess: I) the use of coniferous terpenes as potential biocides against agricultural pathogenic fungi and insects II) the effect of terpenes on plant fitness and plant resistance III) the potential toxicity of terpenes to human cells. The use of coniferous terpenes against pathogens and pests would be an effective, environmental and human health-friendly-strategy to protect agricultural yield. Results of this project may lead to novel bio-pesticides.
