Biochar from grape pomace, a waste of vitivinicultural origin, is effective for root-knot nematode control

Abstract

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are obligate endoparasites that feed on their host plants to complete its life cycle, representing a major threat to agriculture and economy worldwide. The development of new management strategies becomes essential as effective chemical nematicides are progressively being restricted. Hence, we analysed grape pomace-derived biochars, pyrolysed at 350 °C (BC350) and 700 °C (BC700), focusing on their potential for RKN control. The thermal treatment of grape pomace caused an increase in the concentration of carbon and plant macro- and micronutrients, which were largely present in a water-soluble form. Synchrotron radiation-based Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy data showed a general loss of carboxylic functional groups during pyrolysis, partially contributing to the alkalinisation of both biochars, mostly in BC700. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed a highly porous structure filled with different crystals composed of elements such as K, Ca, Mg, P, Si or Al, which could be a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms. Biochar-derived aqueous extracts showed phytotoxicity to tomato seedlings at high concentrations, and disappeared upon dilution, but no toxic effect was observed on the nematode’s infective stage. However, the infective and reproductive traits of a Meloidogyne javanica population in tomato were significantly reduced (i.e. egg masses and eggs per plant) in washed-biochar-treated soil in pots (0.75%; BC350W). Therefore, the large amount of grape waste generated after wine production can be transformed into a valuable product such as biochar, effective for RKNs control, thus reducing the waste management problem and contributing to a circular economy. Graphical abstract

Approaches of Biochar in Ecosystem Management: current scenario and future perspectives

“…The effectiveness of utilising biochar produced from burned log wood has been demonstrated in reducing the populations of Pratylenchuscoffeae, a migratory endoparasitic nematode that inflicts substantial harm to banana roots [83]. The decrease in nematode populations was seen at a concentration of 4% (wt/wt) [84]. The utilisation of biochar derived from poultry litter in the cultivation of grapevines led to a significant reduction in soil populations of plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs), such as Meloidogyne javanica, Tylenchulus semipenetrans, Pratylenchus spp., Helicotylenchus spp., and Criconemoid spp.…”