Meroterpenoids are naturally occurring bioactive compounds derived from terpenoids. Isolation and structure elucidation of four meroterpenoids from Arnebia euchroma root confirmed as arnebinol A-D have been conducted and their antifungal and anti-aflatoxigenic activities against Aspergillus flavus have been investigated. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that after treating A. flavus with arnebinol A-D at ≥200 mg/L, the conidia with phialides appeared wrinkled and compressed, the cell wall was damaged, and mycelial growth was entirely inhibited. Arnebinol D could inhibit A. flavus aflatoxin production and reduce ergosterol levels. The present experiments confirmed the antifungal activity of arnebinol D and provided evidence for the potential use of these natural compounds against fungi.

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