Abstract:
Biogas slurry is the residue liquid after anaerobic fermentation of biomass. The bio-slurry has the potential to
promote plant growth and control pests. This study explores the pesticidal potency of anaerobic digestate
focusing on structural elucidation through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. Samples were
collected from three anaerobic digesters processing cow dung, mixed substrates, and pig waste. Physicochemical
parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and nitrogen content were measured. The
slurries exhibited slightly basic pH values (7.5–7.8) and electrical conductivity (13.8–21.9 mS/m). GC–MS
analysis revealed diverse phytochemical compounds in the bio-slurries, such as gramine, 2,2-dimethoxybutane,
and 4-methyl-3-penten-2-one, with potential pesticidal properties. Gramine exhibited insecticidal, herbicidal,
and algaecidal effects, while 2,2-dimethoxyethane demonstrated fungicidal and herbicidal properties. Gramine
was identified and possesses its potential as a natural biopesticide. The identified compounds offer promising
alternatives to synthetic pesticides, emphasizing the potential of biogas slurry as a sustainable biopesticide
resource.
