SaltShock™ Development

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Resin Development Timeline for Sodium Chloride (NaCl) inoculation in Aquilaria malaccensis trees. NaCl acts as a moderate abiotic stress inducer, primarily triggering osmotic and ionic stress that can lead to resin production, especially when used in controlled concentrations or with synergistic agents.


Resin Development Timeline – NaCl Inoculant

Day 0: Inoculation

  • NaCl solution (typically 3–5% w/v) is injected into tree trunk boreholes.
  • Causes osmotic shock and ionic imbalance in localized xylem tissue.
  • Immediate stress response begins—ion toxicity and water loss at cellular level.

Week 1–2: Acute Cellular Stress

  • Tissue around the borehole shows early signs of browning.
  • Mild to moderate necrosis sets in as cells begin to die.
  • Defense responses initiated: ROS generation, phenolic biosynthesis.
  • If co-inoculated with microbial agents (e.g., Fusarium), colonization may begin here.

Week 3–4: Early Resin Synthesis

  • Tree activates production of antioxidants and secondary metabolites.
  • Phenolic resin compounds accumulate around stress sites.
  • Cross-section reveals light brown discoloration and faint aroma.
  • With co-inoculants, synergistic resin response may be more visible.

Month 2–3: Resin Maturation Phase I

  • Tissue shows darker resin zones 3–8 cm around injection sites.
  • Developing resin begins to solidify and darken—woody or herbal aroma may develop.
  • If NaCl is over-concentrated, excessive necrosis or reduced yield may result.

Month 4–6: Resin Expansion Phase

  • Resin zone expands vertically and horizontally.
  • Aroma becomes stronger—mildly sweet to spicy scent.
  • Tissue darkens to deep brown, approaching commercial-grade agarwood.
  • In co-inoculated setups, microbial metabolites enhance depth and complexity.

Month 9–12+: Peak Resin Maturity

  • Fully developed blackish agarwood pockets may form in well-responding trees.
  • Volatile organic compounds (e.g., jinkohol, agarospirol) increase.
  • Tree core becomes heavier and aromatic.
  • Time is optimal for sampling, grading, or harvesting.

Summary Table

Time FrameKey EventsTissue Appearance
Day 0NaCl injection, osmotic/ionic stress beginsNo change
Week 1–2Early necrosis, defense signalingLight yellow-brown halo
Week 3–4Resin synthesis initiationLight resin, faint scent
Month 2–3Resin matures and darkensBrownish streaks
Month 4–6Resin expands, aroma intensifiesDark brown aromatic wood
Month 9–12+High-grade resin may formBlack resin pockets, sweet scent

Notes on NaCl Inoculant Use

  • Concentration Sensitivity: NaCl can cause toxicity if >5% w/v is used.
  • Stress Type: Moderate osmotic and ionic stress.
  • Synergistic Potential: Can be paired with microbial inoculants or organic inducers (e.g., brown sugar) to enhance efficacy.
  • Application Tip: Use in low to moderate concentrations on mature trees to avoid over-stressing.

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