Phytotoxicity of Natural Molecules Derived from Cereal Crops as a Means to Increase Yield Productivity

Abstract

When compounds enter the environment, they might have an immediate or indirect biochemical effect on the germination, development, survival, or reproduction of other organisms. This phenomenon is known as phytotoxicity, which also includes allelopathy and autotoxicity. The impact of this biological phenomena on growth could be synergistic (helpful) or antagonistic (bad), depending on the chemicals sent from the plants that are donating and the plants that are receiving them. To regulate undesired plant spices and biocidal chemicals in a manner that doesn't harm nature is the goal of allelopathy. It has also been proposed as a possible explanation for autotoxicity in yield. The use of chemical pesticides to control weed infestation might endanger both people and the environment. Sustainable weed biocontrol, increased agricultural output, and improved food security might all result from plants that exhibit allelopathy activities caused by secondary metabolites. With a growing population and rising consumption, there is an immediate need to safeguard biodiversity, guarantee food safety, enhance food and nutrient quality, and increase agricultural productivity. To that end, this research aims to update readers on the latest findings about the phytotoxicity and allelopathic effects of four plant extracts—sorghum, sunflower, rice, and maize—in the interest of agroecosystem sustainability in food and agricultural production.