Induction | Wounding | Fungal | Chemical | Enzyme | Stress-Based
Stress-based induction involves exposing Aquilaria trees to environmental stresses that naturally trigger their defense mechanisms, leading to resin (agarwood) production — without direct wounding or microbial inoculation.
It’s nature’s way of saying: “The tree feels threatened → It produces protective resin (agarwood).”
Types of Environmental Stress:
| Stress Type | How It Works | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Drought Stress | Water shortage stresses the tree → Defensive response. | Controlled water withholding for weeks. |
| Salinity Stress | High salt in soil stresses root systems. | Adding saline water (low doses) near roots. |
| Temperature Stress | High heat or sudden cold shocks tissues. | Planting in harsher climates or cold fog exposure. |
| Nutrient Deficiency | Lack of essential nutrients forces biochemical adaptation. | Reducing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium in soil. |
| Mechanical Stress (Wind/Storm) | Frequent bending or branch damage stimulates resin defense. | Planting in windy regions, mechanical shaking. |
| Lightning Strikes / Fire | Natural events cause localized burns or shock. | Rare but highly effective in the wild! |
Key Features:
- Non-invasive: No heavy injury or drilling needed.
- Natural resin quality: Closely resembles wild agarwood.
- Sustainability: Minimal tree damage → long-term plantation health.
- Slow Process: Takes years to develop fully (like 5–10 years naturally).
Scientific Insight:
- Stress triggers the jasmonic acid pathway and oxidative burst inside the tree.
- These biochemical signals lead to secondary metabolite biosynthesis — aka resin.
- Sesquiterpenes like α-agarofuran, β-agarofuran, agarol, and chromones start accumulating.