Essential oils or phytochemicals that are naturally synthesized by plants have received much attention as alternative pest control strategy. They are composed of highly volatile compounds which are less toxic to human but highly toxic to pests such as insects, microorganisms and nematodes. Until now, many researchers have evaluated the toxicities of essential oils and phytochemicals in Korea. Among them some of essential oils are formulated as repellents against mosquitoes. However, even such a broad research, the mode of action of essential oils is still unclear. To develop more effective and environmental friendly natural pesticides and to help understand the mode of action of essential oils, we have investigated the structureactivity relationship (SAR) between the chemical components of bio-active essential oils and nematode as well as insect pests. SAR of short-chain aliphatic compounds and ester analogues and pine wood nematode, Brusaphelenchus xylophilus; and salicylate analogues and adzuki been weevil, Callosobruchus chinensis are discussed here.

• Eunsik Shin(Division of Applied Life Science (BK21+))
• Junheon Kim(Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (BK21+))
• Il-Kwon Park(Department of Forest Science, Seoul National University)
• Chung Gyoo Park(Division of Applied Life Science (BK21+), Institute of Agriculture and Life Science (BK21+))