Bioefficacy of Leaf Extracts of Tridax procumbens L. and Amaranthus viridis L. Against Fusarium and Alternaria Fungal Pathogens

Abstract

Plant pathogenic fungi such as Fusarium and Alternaria are responsible for significant crop losses worldwide, affecting both yield and quality. The increasing resistance of these pathogens to synthetic fungicides and the associated environmental concerns have prompted the search for eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives. In this context, medicinal plants have gained attention due to their rich phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties. The present study aims to evaluate the antifungal potential and bioefficacy of leaf extracts of Tridax procumbens L. and Amaranthus viridis L. species against Fusarium and Alternaria under in vitro conditions. Leaf extracts were prepared using suitable solvents, and antifungal activity was assessed using standard techniques such as the poisoned food method or agar well diffusion method. The results indicated that both plant extracts exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the growth of the tested fungal pathogens, with varying degrees of efficacy depending on the concentration and type of extract. The antifungal activity is attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and phenolic compounds known for their antimicrobial properties. The findings of this study highlight the potential use of Tridax procumbens L. and Amaranthus viridis L. leaf extracts as natural antifungal agents. These plant-based alternatives could serve as eco-friendly substitutes for chemical fungicides in sustainable agriculture. Further studies are recommended to isolate specific active compounds and evaluate their effectiveness under field conditions.