Bioefficacy of essential oil from Polygonum hydropiper L. against mosquitoes, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus

Biocontrol agents and their potential use as nano biopesticides to control the tea red spider mite (Oligonychus coffeae): A comprehensive review

Tea red spider mite (TRSM), Oligonychus coffeae Nietner, is one of the major pests that cause considerable crop losses in all tea-growing countries. TRSM management often involves the use of multiple chemical pesticides that are linked to human health risks and environmental pollution. Considering these critical issues, employing biocontrol agents is a potential green approach that may replace synthetic pesticides. This review study aims to discuss the efficacy of plant extracts, entomopathogenic microorganisms, and predators in controlling TRSM. This study includes 44 botanical extracts, 14 microbial species, and 8 potential predators used to control TRSM, along with their respective modes of action. Most of the botanical extracts have ovicidal, adulticidal, and larvicidal activity, ranging from 80 to 100 %, attributed to bioactive compounds such as phenols, alcohols, alkaloids, tannins, and other secondary metabolites. Among microbial pesticides, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Metarhizium robertsii, Aspergillus niger, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Pseudomonas putida are highly effective against TRSM without causing any harm to the nontarget beneficial insects. Besides, some predators, including green lacewings, ladybirds, and phytoseiid mites have the potential to control TRSM. Employing these biocontrol agents simultaneously in tea plantations could be more effective in preventing TRSM. Nevertheless, their high biodegradability rate, uneven distribution, and uncontrolled release pose challenges for large-scale field applications. This study also explores how nanotechnology can enhance sustainability by addressing the limitations of biopesticides in field conditions. This review study could contribute to the search for potential biocontrol agents and the development of commercial nano biopesticides to control TRSM.

Assessment of biorational larvicides and botanical oils against Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae in laboratory conditions

Mosquitoes are known vectors that transmit deadly diseases to millions of people across the globe. The reliance on synthetic insecticides has been the sole way to combat mosquito vectors for decades. In recent years, the extensive use of conventional insecticides in mosquito suppression has led to significant pesticide resistance and serious human health hazards. In this light, investigating the potential application of biorational compounds for vector management has drawn significant attention. We, hereby, evaluated the efficacy of three microbial derivative biorational insecticides, abamectin, spinosad, and buprofezin, and two botanical oils, neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) and karanja oil (Pongamia pinnata Linn.) against the Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions. The fourth-instar C. quinquefasciatus larvae were exposed to different concentrations of the selected larvicides and lethality was estimated based on LC50 and LT50 with Probit analysis. All larvicides showed concentration-dependent significant effects on survival and demonstrated larvicidal activity against C. quinquefasciatus larvae. However, abamectin exerted the highest toxicity (LC50 = 10.36 ppm), exhibited statistically significant effects on C. quinquefasciatus larval mortality, followed by spinosad (LC50 = 21.32 ppm) and buprofezin (LC50 = 56.34 ppm). Abamectin caused larval mortality ranged from 30.00 to 53.33 % and 53.00-70.00 % at 06 and 07 h after treatment (HAT), respectively. In the case of botanicals, karanja oil (LC50 = 216.61 ppm) was more lethal (more than 1.5 times) and had a shorter lethal time than neem oil (LC50 = 330.93 ppm) and showed a classic pattern of relationship between concentrations and mortality over time. Overall, the present study highlighted the potential of deploying new generation biorational pesticides and botanicals in mosquito vector control programs.

Exploring the bioactive potential leaves of Sphaeranthus indicus: Targeting immature stages of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito vectors through bioassay-guided screening and fraction isolation

Mosquito control is vital for combating mosquito-borne diseases, but concerns exist regarding the use of synthetic insecticides. This study aimed to explore eco-friendly alternatives derived from natural sources. The larvicidal, pupicidal, and ovicidal activities of various fractions obtained from the hexane leaf extract of Sphaeranthus indicus were investigated against two important mosquito vectors, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. S. indicus leaves were extracted with hexane and column chromatography was performed with hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and their mixtures as eluents. Among the ten fractions (F1-F10) evaluated, fraction 'F-4' exhibited significant activity against third instar larvae, pupae, and eggs of both mosquito species, closely followed by 'F-5' . At a concentration of 10 ppm, 'F-4' achieved 100% mortality in larvae and displayed LC50 values of 5.08 ppm and 5.03 ppm for Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae, respectively. The LC50 values for pupae were 6.12 ppm and 5.83 ppm for Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus, respectively. Regarding ovicidal activity, 'F-4' demonstrated percentages ranging from 63.2% to 64.8% against Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus eggs, respectively. These findings underscore the potent larvicidal, pupicidal, and ovicidal effects of fraction 'F-4' from S. indicus against the targeted mosquito species. Further research is warranted to identify the active compounds responsible for these effects and explore practical applications for sustainable mosquito control strategies.

Bioefficacy of ursolic acid and its derivatives isolated from Catharanthus roseus (L) G. Don leaf against Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Anopheles stephensi larvae

The aim of the present study was to identify the active principle from Catharanthus roseus leaf using larvicidal bioassay against three mosquito species viz. Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Anopheles stephensi. Preliminary studies of the three successive extracts such as hexane, chloroform, and methanol against Ae. aegypti larvae showed that the chloroform extract was more active with LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values of 40.09 ppm and 189.15 ppm respectively. Bioassay guided fractionation of the active chloroform extract resulted in the isolation of a triterpenoid (ursolic acid) as the active constituent. Three derivatives acetate, formate, and benzoate were prepared using this, and they were tested for their larvicidal activity against three mosquito species. The acetyl derivative was highly active against all the three species compared to the parent compound ursolic acid; the activities of benzoate and formate were higher than ursolic acid when tested against Cx. quinquefasciatus. This is the first report related to ursolic acid from C. roseus with mosquito larvicidal activity. The pure compound could be considered for medicinal and other pharmacological applications in future.

Bioefficacy of isolated compound l-isoleucine, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester from entomopathogenic actinobacteria Actinokineospora fastidiosa against agricultural insect pests, human vector mosquitoes, and antioxidant activities

Spodoptera litura and Helicoverpa armigera are polyphagous pests of agricultural crops in the Asian tropics since these pests have been responsible for massive crop and carry economic losses and low commodity production. At the same time, mosquitoes are vectors for numerous dreadful diseases, which is the most important group of insect for their public health concern. Using synthetic insecticides to control the pests can lead to contamination of land surface and groundwater and impact beneficial soil organisms and nontarget species. Applications of bioactive compounds are received considerable attention across the world as alternatives to synthetic insecticides. In the current study, actinobacterial secondary metabolite was isolated from Actinokineospora fastidiosa for the first time. The effect of actinobacterial metabolite (l-isoleucine, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester) was assessed on agricultural pest S. litura and H. armigera, mosquito vectors larvae Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi, and Cx. quinquefasciatus. The bioactive fraction was characterized through UV, FTIR, and NMR analysis. GC-MS analyses reveal the existence of a bioactive compound with a respective retention time of 19.740 responsible for larvicidal activity. The bioefficacy of the l-isoleucine, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester showed high antifeedant activity on S. litura (80.80%) and H. armigera (84.49%); and larvicidal activity on S. litura (82.77%) and H. armigera (88.00%) at 25 μg/mL concentration, respectively. The effective LC₅₀ values were 8.07 μg/mL (F = 2.487, r² = 0.988, P ≤ 0.05) on S. litura and 7.53 μg/mL (F = 123.25, r² = 0.951, P ≤ 0.05) on H. armigera. The mosquito larvicidal effect of isolated compounds l-isoleucine, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester treated against Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi, and Cx. quinquefasciatus the obtained percentage mortality was 96.66, 83.24, 64.52, 50.00, and 40.00% against Ae. aegypti; 100.00, 86.22, 73.81, 65.37, and 56.24% against An. stephensi; 100.00, 90.00, 76.24, 68.75, and 56.23% against Cx. quinquefasciatus. The mosquito larvae of Ae. aegypti obtained LC₅₀ value was 13.25 μg/mL, F = 28.50, r² = 0.90; on An. stephensi was 10.19 μg/mL, F = 15.55, r² = 0.83, and Cx. quinquefasciatus was 9.68 μg/mL, F = 20.00, r² = 0.87. Furthermore, l-isoleucine-, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester-treated larvae produced significant pupicidal activity on S. litura (62.71%) and H. armigera (66.50%) at 25 μg/mL, along with increased larval and pupal duration as compared to control group. Treated larvae revealed obliteration in the midgut epithelial cells and destruction of microvilli was noticed as compared to the control. The isolated compounds l-isoleucine, N-allyloxycarbonyl-, and dodecyl ester did not produce any significant mortality on zebrafish embryos in all tested concentrations on biosafety observation. The potential microbial isolated molecule may fit well in IPM programs. Since the risk to human health, the environment, etc. is unknown.

Chemical Composition of Essential Oils of Seven Polygonum Species from Turkey: A Chemotaxonomic Approach

Medicinal plants and herbal preparations are gaining attention in the scientific community today, as they are often used intermittently in the treatment of various diseases. The genus of Polygonum (Polygonaceae), known locally as “madimak”, is an aromatic plant widely used in world flavors. The chemical composition of the essential oils of dried aerial parts of seven of Polygonum was analyzed by GC-MS. These species are Polygonum lapathifolium L., Polygonum persicaria L., Polygonum arenastrum Bor., Polygonum bellardii All., Polygonum arenarium Waldst. Et Kit., Polygonum aviculare L., and Polygonum cognatum Meissn. Qualitative and quantitative differences were found in the essential oil analysis of the seven Polygonum species. The major compounds were determined as (E)-β-farnesene (19. 46%), dodecanal (15.92%), β-caryophyllene (12.95%), in P. aviculare; (E)-β-farnesene (25.00%), dodecanal (20.45%), β-caryophyllene (9.38%), and caryophyllene oxide (8. 26%) in P. persicaria; dodecanal (25.65%), caryophyllene oxide (13.35%), β-caryophyllene (7.95%), and (E)-β-farnesene (6.20%) in P. lapathifolium, and dodecanal (19.65%), (E)-β-farnesene (13.86%), β-caryophyllene (8.06%), and α-terpineol (7.2%) in P. arenarium, dodecanal (16.23%), β-caryophyllene (16.09%), (E)-β-farnesene (12.26%), caryophyllene oxide (7.94%) in P. bellardii, (E)-β-farnesene (20.75%), dodecanal (17.96%), β-caryophyllene (13.01%), α-terpineol (4.97%) in P. arenastrum, (E)-β-farnesene (9.49%), dodecanal (14.01%), β-caryophyllene (11.92%), geranyl acetate (9.49%), and undecanal (7.35%) in P. cognatum. This study is the most comprehensive study conducted to determine the essential oil components of Polygonum species. In addition, a literature review on the composition of the essential oils of these Polygonum taxa was performed. The essential oil components of the species in our study were revealed for the first time with this study.

Larvicidal, antioxidant and biotoxicity assessment of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl)benzoic acid isolated from Bacillus pumilus against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus

Mosquitoes are a vector for many dreadful diseases known for their public health concern. The continued use of synthetic insecticides against vector control has led to serious environmental impacts, human health problems, and the development of insect resistance. Hence, alternative mosquito control methods are needed to protect the environment and human health. In the present study, the bioefficacy of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl) benzoic acid isolated from Bacillus pumilus were tested against Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles stephensi. The isolated bioactive compound was characterized through thin layer chromatography (TLC), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The pure compound caused a high percent mortality rate in a dose-dependent manner, the obtained values were 96, 82, 69, 50 and 34%; 86, 72, 56, 43, and 44%; 100, 90, 83, 70 and 56% against Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus, and An. stephensi respectively. The effective lethal concentration values (LC₅₀) were 13.65, 14.90 and 9.64 ppm against Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus, An. Stephensi, respectively. The effect of (2-(((2-ethyl-2 methylhexyl)oxy)carbonyl) benzoic acid significantly increased the superoxide dismutase, catalase, α, β esterase and Glutathione-S-transferase level after 24 h of the treatment period. The comet assay confirmed that isolated compound causes DNA damage in all tested insects. Histopathological examinations of treated larvae showed shrunken body posture, damaged epithelial cells and microvillus as compared to control organisms. The biosafety of the isolated compound was assessed against G. affinis and did not produce mortality which confirmed that the activity of the isolated compound is species specific. The current study concludes that the critical success factors of new insecticidal agent development are based on the eco-compatibility and alternative tools for the pesticide producing industry.

Developmental response of Spodoptera litura Fab in response to plant extract of Desmostachya bipinnata (L.) and its effect on non-target organism, earthworm (Eisenia fetida)

Impact of chloroform extract of Desmostachya bipinnata was evaluated on armyworm Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The chloroform extract of D. bipinnata was subjected to GC-MS analysis to elucidate the vital 12 compounds. The mortality of S. litura was tested at four different concentrations viz., 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 %, which exhibited a dose-dependent response. Mortality was significant at a concentration of 2%. Accrued LC₅₀ (lethal concentration) value was 0.15%. The developmental duration of larva and pupa was significantly increased in all treatments. Reduction in weight of pupae in treated groups was noticed and was compared with control. Longevity of S. litura decreased in all tested treatments and being most significant at concentrations of 1.5 and 2%. Simultaneous reduction in fecundity of S. litura was observed. Pathological changes were noticed in the mid gut of S. litura at concentrations of 1 and 1.5%. No significant impacts on earthworm were observed. The results of the present study revealed that chloroform extract from D. bipinnata, an old-world perennial grass, shown effective bio-pesticidal activity against S. litura, an important agricultural pest.

Effectiveness of plant-based repellents against different Anopheles species: a systematic review

Plant-based repellents have been applied for generations in traditional practice as a personal protection approach against different species of Anopheles. Knowledge of traditional repellent plants is a significant resource for the development of new natural products as an alternative to chemical repellents. Many studies have reported evidence of repellant activities of plant extracts or essential oils against malaria vectors worldwide. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness of plant-based repellents against Anopheles mosquitoes. All eligible studies on the repellency effects of plants against Anopheles mosquitoes published up to July 2018 were systematically searched through PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Google scholar databases. Outcomes measures were percentage repellency and protection time. A total of 62 trials met the inclusion criteria. The highest repellency effect was identified from Ligusticum sinense extract, followed by citronella, pine, Dalbergia sissoo, peppermint and Rhizophora mucronata oils with complete protection time ranging from 9.1 to 11.5 h. Furthermore, essential oils from plants such as lavender, camphor, catnip, geranium, jasmine, broad-leaved eucalyptus, lemongrass, lemon-scented eucalyptus, amyris, narrow-leaved eucalyptus, carotin, cedarwood, chamomile, cinnamon oil, juniper, cajeput, soya bean, rosemary, niaouli, olive, tagetes, violet, sandalwood, litsea, galbanum, and Curcuma longa also showed good repellency with 8 h complete repellency against different species of Anopheles. Essential oils and extracts of some plants could be formulated for the development of eco-friendly repellents against Anopheles species. Plant oils may serve as suitable alternatives to synthetic repellents in the future as they are relatively safe, inexpensive, and are readily available in many parts of the world.

Deciphering the associated risk on soil microbes upon use of biopesticides in rice ecosystem

Plant species, viz Cleistanthus collinus, Lantana camara, and Strychnos nux-vomica are being traditionally used for pest management in rice. However, limited investigation has been carried out to understand the toxic effect of these materials on soil microbes. Hot water extracts of these plants were evaluated for their effects on soil microbial population and enzyme activities along with neem oil and chlorpyrifos as check. Soil microbial population, viz bacteria, fungi, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), and asymbiotic nitrogen fixers were unchanged after application of plant extracts. Maximum population of bacteria including PSB and asymbiotic nitrogen fixers were observed in control, whereas, S. nux-vomica, and C. collinus-treated soil had higher number of actinomycetes and fungal population, respectively. Soil microbial biomass did not vary differently among the plant extracts. Application of plant extracts did not alter dehydrogenase, β-glycosidase, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and urease content in soil. Secondary metabolites present in these plant extracts may be responsible for variable effects on soil microbes. Chlorpyrifos had a fleeting negative effect on soil microbes and enzymes in comparison to plant extracts. All the three plants did not have any negative effect on soil microbes and enzymes and can be safely recommended in rice pest management.

Plant-Derived Essential Oils; Their Larvicidal Properties and Potential Application for Control of Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquito-borne diseases are currently considered as important threats to human health in subtropical and tropical regions. Resistance to synthetic larvicides in different species of mosquitoes, as well as environmental pollution, are the most common adverse effects of excessive use of such agents. Plant-derived essential oils (EOs) with various chemical entities have a lower chance of developing resistance. So far, no proper classification based on lethal concentration at 50% (LC₅₀) has been made for the larvicidal activity of EOs against different species of Aedes, Anopheles and Culex mosquitoes. To better understand the problem, a summary of the most common mosquito-borne diseases have been made. Related articles were gathered, and required information such as scientific name, used part(s) of plant, target species and LC₅₀ values were extracted. 411 LC₅₀ values were found about the larvicidal activity of EOs against different species of mosquitoes. Depending on the obtained results in each species, LC₅₀ values were summarized as follows: 24 EOs with LC₅₀ < 10 µg/mL, 149 EOs with LC₅₀ in range of 10- 50 µg/mL, 143 EOs having LC₅₀ within 50- 100 µg/mL and 95 EOs showing LC₅₀ > 100 µg/mL. EOs of Callitris glaucophylla and Piper betle against Ae. aegypti, Tagetes minuta against An. gambiae, and Cananga odorata against Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. dirus having LC₅₀ of ~ 1 µg/mL were potentially comparable to synthetic larvicides. It appears that these plants could be considered as candidates for botanical larvicides.

The Phytochemistry of Cherokee Aromatic Medicinal Plants

Background: Native Americans have had a rich ethnobotanical heritage for treating diseases, ailments, and injuries. Cherokee traditional medicine has provided numerous aromatic and medicinal plants that not only were used by the Cherokee people, but were also adopted for use by European settlers in North America. Methods: The aim of this review was to examine the Cherokee ethnobotanical literature and the published phytochemical investigations on Cherokee medicinal plants and to correlate phytochemical constituents with traditional uses and biological activities. Results: Several Cherokee medicinal plants are still in use today as herbal medicines, including, for example, yarrow (Achillea millefolium), black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), and blue skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora). This review presents a summary of the traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, and biological activities of Cherokee aromatic and medicinal plants. Conclusions: The list is not complete, however, as there is still much work needed in phytochemical investigation and pharmacological evaluation of many traditional herbal medicines.

A toxicological, metabonomic and transcriptional analysis to investigate the property of mulberry 1-deoxynojirimycin against the growth of Samia cynthia ricini

1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) is a natural d-glucose analogue from mulberry with promising physiological activity in vivo. Up to the present, the antidiabetic effects of DNJ on lowering blood sugar and accelerating lipid metabolism in mammals were broadly reported, but the specific character of DNJ against insects was vastly ignored. In this study, a toxicological test of DNJ againgst eri-silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini was carried out to investigate the potential of DNJ in insect management. Further, a method of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabonomics and real-time qPCR (RT-qPCR) were performed to analyze the alteration in midgut of eri-silkworm caused by DNJ. The result of toxicology showed that 5% and 10% DNJ could significantly inhibit the development of third-instar larvae on day 1-5, and mass deaths happened in DNJ groups on day 3-5. The quantitative analysis of ¹H NMR in fifth-instar larvae showed that trehalose level increased in midgut of 0, 6 and 12 h DNJ groups, while the concentrations of glucose, lactate, alanine, pyruvate, α-ketoglutarate and fumarate were reduced in varying degrees. Meanwhile, principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that there were significant differences in the metabolic profiles among 12 h DNJ groups and the control group. In addition, RT-qPCR results displayed that four genes coding α-glucosidase, trehalase (THL) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were lowered in expression of 12 h DNJ groups. Simultaneously, THL activity was significantly lowerd in 12 h DNJ groups. These mutually corroborated results indicated that the backbone pathways of energy metabolism, including hydrolysis of trehalose and glycogens, glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were significantly inhibited by DNJ. Thus, the specific mechanism of DNJ efficiently suppressing the growth and energy metabolism of eri-silkworm was explored in this study, providing the potential of DNJ as to the production of botanical insecticide.

Curzerene, trans-β-elemenone, and γ-elemene as effective larvicides against Anopheles subpictus, Aedes albopictus, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus: toxicity on non-target aquatic predators

A wide number of studies dealing with mosquito control focus on toxicity screenings of whole plant essential oils, while limited efforts shed light on main molecules responsible of toxicity, as well as their mechanisms of action on non-target organisms. In this study, GC-MS shed light on main essential oil components extracted from leaves of the Suriname cherry Eugenia uniflora, i.e., curzerene (35.7%), trans-β-elemenone (11.5%), and γ-elemene (13.6%), testing them on Anopheles subpictus, Aedes albopictus, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus larvae. Non-target toxicity experiments were carried out on four species of aquatic larvivorous organisms, including fishes, backswimmers, and waterbugs. The essential oil from E. uniflora leaves tested on An. subpictus, Ae. Albopictus, and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus showed LC₅₀ of 31.08, 33.50, and 36.35 μg/ml, respectively. Curzerene, trans-β-elemenone, and γ-elemene were extremely toxic to An. subpictus (LC₅₀ = 4.14, 6.13, and 10.53 μg/ml), Ae. albopictus (LC₅₀ = 4.57, 6.74, and 11.29 μg/ml), and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (LC₅₀ = 5.01, 7.32, and 12.18 μg/ml). The essential oil from E. uniflora leaves, curzerene, trans-β-elemenone, and γ-elemene showed low toxicity to larvivorous fishes, backswimmers, and waterbugs, with LC₅₀ ranging from 303.77 to 6765.56 μg/ml. Predator safety factor (PSF) ranged from 55.72 to 273.45. Overall, we believe that curzerene isolated from the essential oil from E. uniflora leaves can represent an ideal molecule to formulate novel mosquito larvicides, due to its extremely low LC₅₀ on all tested mosquito vectors (4.14-5.01 μg/ml), which far encompasses most of the botanical pesticides tested till now. Notably, the above-mentioned LC₅₀ did not damage the four aquatic predators tested in this study.

Comparative studies on muscle microstructure and ultrastructure of Mythimna separata Walker treated with wilforgine and chlorantraniliprole

We attempted to elucidate the comparative effects between wilforgine and chlorantraniliprole on the microstructure/ultrastructure of muscle tissue in Mythimna separate larvae. The typical toxicity symptoms of M. separata larvae upon wilforgine treatment was feeding cessation and flaccid paralysis, whereas feeding cessation and contraction paralysis were the main poisoning symptoms wrought by chlorantraniliprole. Light-microscopy observations showed that the microstructure of muscle tissue could be damaged by wilforgine and chlorantraniliprole, and the death of insects was associated with muscle lesions. Muscle tissue was loose after wilforgine treatment but constricted muscle tissue was observed upon chlorantraniliprole treatment. Transmission electron microscopy showed that wilforgine and chlorantraniliprole could disrupt endomembranes and plasma membranes. These results suggest that wilforgine can induce microstructural and ultrastructural changes in the muscles of M. separata larvae; the sites of action are proposed to be calcium receptors or channels in the muscular system.

Inhibition of litter decomposition of two emergent macrophytes by addition of aromatic plant powder

Aromatic plants show antimicrobial activity due to their essential oils, but their effect on litter decomposition is unclear. In this study, we evaluated the biomass loss and nutrient dynamics in leaf litters of two macrophytes (Miscanthus sacchariflorus and Carex brevicuspis) with and without addition of powdered material of the aromatic plant Polygonum hydropiper or the non-aromatic plant C. brevicuspis. The two powders had similar basic chemical qualities but P. hydropiperi had a higher essential oils concentration. Leaf litters of M. sacchariflorus and C. brevicuspis were incubated with powdered P. hydropiper or C. brevicuspis (500 g m⁻³, 250 g m⁻³, and no addition) for 120 days in a mesocosm experiment. Compared with the control (no addition), P. hydropiperi addition decelerated nutrient release and litter decomposition, while C. brevicuspis addition accelerated those processes. The nitrogen concentrations in both leaf litters and the phosphorus concentration in C. brevicuspis leaf litter were increased by addition of both plant powders. The fungal biomass in both leaf litters decreased after P. hydropiperi addition, due to the antifungal activity of its essential oils. These data indicate that the aromatic plant P. hydropiperi inhibits litter decomposition via its essential oils and that such inhibition is not species-specific.

Sub-lethal effects of essential oil of Lippia sidoides on drywood termite Cryptotermes brevis (Blattodea: Termitoidea)

The drywood termite Cryptotermes brevis (Walker, 1853) (Kalotermitidae) is one of the most important wood structural pest in the world. Substances from the secondary metabolism of plants (e.g., essential oils) have been considered an environmentally safer form of control for urban pests, such as termites. In the present study, we analyzed the lethal and sub-lethal effects of essential oil of Lippia sidoides and its major components on C. brevis pseudergates in two routes of exposure (contact and fumigation). The essential oil of L. sidoides and thymol were more toxic to C. brevis pseudergates when applied by contact (LD₅₀ = 9.33 and 8.20µgmg^-1, respectively) and by fumigation (LC₅₀ = 9.10 and 23.6µLL^-1, respectively). In general, treatments changed the individual and collective behaviors of C. brevis pseudergates, as well as the displacement and walking speed. The essential oil of L. sidoides and its major components showed a high potential to control C. brevis pseudergates, due to the bioactivity in the two routes of exposure and the sub-lethal effects on the behavior and walking, important activities for the cohesion of C. brevis colonies.

Target and non-target toxicity of botanical insecticide derived from Couroupita guianensis L. flower against generalist herbivore, Spodoptera litura Fab. and an earthworm, Eisenia foetida Savigny

Botanical insecticides may provide alternatives to synthetic insecticides for controlling Spodoptera litura (F.) and they are target specific, biodegradable, and harmless to mammals. Eight natural chemical compounds with larvicidal activity were identified from fraction F6 of C. guianensis flower extract. Probit analysis of 95% confidence level exposed an LC50 of 223ppm against S. litura third instar larvae. The growth and development of S. litura was affected in sub-lethal concentrations of fraction F6 (50, 100, 150 and 200ppm) compared to controls. Similarly nutritional indices values decreased significantly compared to controls. Fraction F6 also damaged the gut epithelial layer and brush border membrane (BBM). This study also resolved the effects of toxicity to non-target earthworm treated with fraction F6 and chemical pesticides (monotrophos and cypermethrin) and the results showed that fraction F6 had no harmful effect on E. fetida. Further, fraction F6 was eluted and sub fractions F6c (50ppm) showed high mortality against S. litura third instar larvae. Octacosane from fraction F6c was established and confirmed using IR spectrum and HPLC. The time of retention of fraction F6c was confirmed with the octacosane standard. Fraction F6 of C. guianensis extract caused dose-dependent mortality towards S. litura. Octacosane in fraction F6c was establish to be the prominent chemical compound associated with causing mortality but other compounds present in the fraction F6 were shown to be associated with changes in development of S. litura at low dosages. S. litura at low dosage. Therefore, these findings suggest that octacosane may be one of the major insecticidal compounds affecting S. litura survival.

A novel biopesticide PONNEEM to control human vector mosquitoes Anopheles stephensi L. and Culex quinquefasciatus Say

Organophosphate pesticides are widely used in vector mosquito management and agricultural pest management. These chemicals enter into natural water bodies and soil and cause hazards to the environment. The objective of this study was to prepare a natural pesticide which will not harm the environment and yet control vector mosquitoes. PONNEEM, a novel biopesticide, patented and prepared from the oils of Azadirachta indica and Pongamia glabra, was tested against Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus. One hundred percent larvicidal and ovicidal activities were observed at 0.1-ppm concentration of PONNEEM against the two mosquito species under laboratory and sunlight conditions up to 12 months from the date of manufacture. Very high oviposition reduction of 26.46 and 32.16 % is also recorded. Reductions in α-esterase level (0.0818 ± 0.340 and 0.2188 ± 0.003), β-esterase level (0.0866 ± 0.026 and 0.0398 ± 0.010 μg naphthol produced/min/mg larval protein), glutathione S-transferase enzyme (14.2571 ± 0.51 and 15.3326 ± 0.51 μmol/min/mg larval protein) and total protein levels (0.0390 ± 0.008 and 0.1975 ± 0.029 mg/individual larva in treated groups of A. stephensi and C. quinquefasciatus at 0.1-ppm concentration, respectively. The non-target organisms such as Gambusia affinis and Diplonychus indicus were not affected. Biopesticides are good alternatives to synthetic pesticides. PONNEEM can be effectively used for the management of human vector mosquitoes. Since it has a biodegradable nature and does not alter the environmental condition of water and soil.

Effect of confertifolin from Polygonum hydropiper L. against dengue vector mosquitoes Aedes aegypti L

The essential oil from the leaves of Polygonum hydropiper L. (Polygonaceae) was tested against Aedes aegypti L. The LC50 values were 190.72 and 234.37 ppm against second and fourth instar larvae of A. aegypti, respectively. Confertifolin (6,6,9a-trimethy l-4,5,5a,6,7,8,9,9a-octahydronaphtho [1,2-c] furan-3 (1H)-one) was isolated from the essential oil of P. hydropiper leaves using silica gel column chromatography. The LC50 values were 2.90 and 2.96 ppm for second and fourth instar larvae of A. aegypti, respectively. At 10 ppm, the concentration of confertifolin showed ovicidal activity of 100, 100, and 77.6 % on 0-6, 6-12, and 12-18 h old eggs; the repellent activity was 323.2 min; and oviposition deterrent activity was 97.52 % and adulticidal activity was 100 % against A. aegypti. The results were statistically significant at P < 0.05 level. The results suggested that confertifolin as an effective major constituent against A. aegypti and might be considered as a potent source for the production of superior natural mosquitocides.

Effect of Polygonum hydropiper L. against dengue vector mosquito Aedes albopictus L

The present study aimed to evaluate the essential oil and an isolated compound from the leaves of Polygonum hydropiper L. against dengue vector mosquito Aedes albopictus L. The plant material was macerated and steam distilled using clavenger apparatus for oil extraction. The essential oil was tested at different concentrations of 100, 50, 25, 12.5 and 6.25 ppm concentrations against the larvae of Ae. albopictus. The isolated compound was tested for larvicidal, ovicidal, repellent, oviposition deterrent and adulticidal activities at 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25 and 0.625 ppm concentrations. The essential oil exhibited LC₅₀ values of 194.63 and 199.65 and confertifolin exhibited LC₅₀ values of 2.02 and 3.16 against the second and fourth instar larvae of Ae. albopictus, respectively. The ovicidal activity of 100% on 0- to 6-h-old eggs, repellent activity of 320.6 min, oviposition deterrent activity of 98.51% and adulticidal activity of 100% at 10 ppm concentration of confertifolin were recorded. No mortality of was observed in negative control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the potential mosquitocidal activities of confertifolin against Ae. albopictus.

Design and development of aqueous nanoformulations for mosquito control

Microemulsions (ME) are thermodynamically stable isotropic mixtures of oil, water, and surfactant; they would also be attractive as potential insecticidal products due to the high bioviability of the active ingredient, attributable to the small sizes of the oil drops. A laboratory study was conducted in order to compare the biological effect of oil in water (o/w) geranium essential oil (EO) and geraniol MEs and emulsions, against Culex pipiens pipiens mosquito larvae. The systems were based on three nonionic surfactants (Cremophor EL, Brij 35, Tween 80). The MEs showed dispersed phase diameters in the range of 8 to 14 nm and had low PDI values (<0.2). The MEs were analyzed by TEM, indicating that they had nearly spherical morphology. The microemulsified systems based on geranium EO and those of geraniol produced a notable increase of the larvicidal activity when compared with the respectably emulsions, concluding that the biological effect is related with the diameter of the dispersed phase. The smallest drops achieved the highest larvicidal activity, being the aqueous nanoformulations based on geraniol most effective than those of geranium EO. However, geranium microemulsions are preferred due to their residual toxicological profiles. The results indicate that these novel systems could be used in integrated pest management program for the C. pipiens pipiens.