Efficacy of aqueous Aegle marmelos leaf extract for the control of Megacopta cribraria

Abstract

Abstract Megacopta cribraria, a new pest of concern worldwide, has been studied extensively to understand its binomics and control. Research on efficacy of botanical pesticides for its control, however is lacking. This study focuses on the efficacy of a plant-based extract derived from Aegle marmelos leaves. The ovicidal potential of crude aqueous A. marmelosleaf extract was tested at five concentrations (1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%), resulting in a maximum of 30% ovicidal action at the 10% concentration which is significantly higher than the control as in the natural condition 100% egg hatching is observed. The extract also exhibited deterrence activity against adult bugs. At all concentrations, significant deterrence was observed in terms of time spent on the treated surface and the frequency of visitation. At the highest concentration, only 2.5% of the total 10 min observation time was spent on the treated surface as compared to the control. The frequency of visitation to the treated surface (14% visit) also declined significantly at 10% concentration clearly exhibiting the deterrent effect of the extract to the bugs. This deterrence activity was further evident by frequent grooming behavior exhibited by the bugs, trying to cleanse away the extract stuck to their body receptors. The study shows that A. marmelos leaves extract has the potential as a biopesticide against M. cribraria and can be researched further in different aspects of its insecticidal potential and can be considered by agriculturists for the pest control program.