In the heart of Tunisia, researchers are unlocking the secrets of an ancient tree to combat a modern agricultural challenge. Hafsia Bouzenna, a scientist at the Laboratory of Biotechnology and Biomonitoring of the Environment and Oasis Ecosystems (LBBEEO) at the University of Gafsa, has been investigating the insecticidal properties of polysaccharides extracted from the seeds of Prunus amygdalus amara, commonly known as bitter almond. Her work, published in the Journal of Oasis Agriculture and Sustainable Development (Journal of Desert Agriculture and Sustainable Development), could pave the way for new, eco-friendly insecticides that are less harmful to the environment.
Bouzenna’s research focuses on the water-soluble polysaccharides extracted from the seeds of Prunus amygdalus amara. These polysaccharides, she found, have a significant insecticidal effect against Tribolium confusum, a common pest in stored grains. “Our results show that these polysaccharides are rich in aromatic and sulfonated compounds, which are likely complexed to proteins,” Bouzenna explains. This unique chemical composition is what gives the polysaccharides their insecticidal properties.
The study revealed that the polysaccharides’ contact toxicity was dose and time-dependent. When applied at a concentration of 8 mg/ml for 15 days, the polysaccharides induced an 80% mortality rate in adult Tribolium confusum. Moreover, the repellent effect varied between 66% and 100% for the studied doses after just 6 hours of exposure. “The analysis of malondialdehyde proved that exposure to these polysaccharides induced oxidative stress at the organismic level, thus explaining in part their toxic effect on Tribolium confusum,” Bouzenna adds.
The implications of this research are significant for the agricultural sector. With the growing concern over the environmental impact of synthetic pesticides, there is a pressing need for natural, eco-friendly alternatives. Bouzenna’s findings suggest that polysaccharides extracted from Prunus amygdalus amara could be a promising candidate for the development of such alternatives.
Moreover, the use of natural insecticides could have a positive impact on the energy sector. Synthetic pesticides are often energy-intensive to produce and can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, natural insecticides like the polysaccharides studied by Bouzenna could be produced using renewable resources and have a lower environmental footprint.
As Bouzenna continues her research, she hopes to further elucidate the mechanisms behind the insecticidal effects of these polysaccharides. “Understanding the precise molecular interactions will be crucial for optimizing their use in agricultural settings,” she says. Her work could not only lead to the development of new, eco-friendly insecticides but also contribute to our broader understanding of the complex interactions between plants and insects.
In the meantime, Bouzenna’s findings serve as a reminder of the vast potential that lies in the natural world. As she puts it, “Nature has provided us with an incredible array of molecules, and we are only beginning to scratch the surface of their potential applications.” With further research and development, the polysaccharides from Prunus amygdalus amara could become a key player in the fight against agricultural pests, offering a sustainable and effective solution for farmers worldwide.