ESI-FTMS and GC-MS aldehydic compounds identification of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides extracts and their nematicidal activities against Meloidogyne spp

Root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne spp., represent a major threat to global agriculture, causing significant economic losses. Chemical nematicides, although commonly used, have drawbacks such as toxicity and the development of resistance. This study evaluates the efficacy of the ethanolic extract and essential oil of Z. zanthoxyloides against these nematodes. Using ultrasound-assisted extraction and distillation methods, the active compounds were identified by GC-MS and ESI-FTMS. The ethanolic extract showed significant nematicidal activity with a mortality rate above 80% and an EC50 of 853.7 mg/L. The essential oil also exhibited high efficacy with an EC50 of 846.6 mg/L. The identified aldehydic compounds, such as hexa-2.4-dienal, are thought to contribute to this activity. These promising results suggest that Z. zanthoxyloides could be developed as a natural biopesticide for sustainable nematode management, offering a safer and more effective alternative to current chemical nematicides.