Evaluation of the Inhibitory Efficacy of Eugenol against the Pathogen of Fusarium Wilt in Ginger Seedlings

Fusariumwilt, mainly caused byFusarium oxysporum, affects ginger yield and quality worldwide. To explore a safe and sustainable method of preventing and controllingFusariumwilt, the inhibitory effects of eugenol onF. oxysporum FOX-1were analysed in this study. The results showed that eugenol inhibited the reproductive and vegetative growth ofF. oxysporum FOX-1in vitro. Microscopic observations revealed that eugenol disrupted the hyphal morphology ofF. oxysporum. In addition, eugenol destroyed the cell membrane integrity of the pathogenic fungi, resulting in the leakage ofF. oxysporum FOX-1intercellular contents, including electrolytes, soluble proteins, nucleic acids, and malonydialdehyde. Results of an in vivo inoculation test showed that eugenol exerted a strong inhibitory effect onFusariumwilt in ginger seedlings. In summary, eugenol had an inhibitory effect on the growth ofF. oxysporum FOX-1and controlledFusariumwilt in ginger seedlings. These findings provide a foundation for future development of botanical antifungal agents to manageFusariumwilt.Keywords:Fusariumwilt;eugenol;essential oil;antifungal activity;Zingiber officinale