Are Papaya Seeds at Different Stages of Development Effective in Controlling the Red Palm Mite?

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the acaricidal potential of papaya fruit seed (C. papaya L.) extracts at different phenological stages of development on the red palm mite.   Methods: Extracts from green and ripe seeds, diluted at different concentrations, were sprayed on adult mites in a completely randomized design using Petri dishes with discs of dwarf coconut leaf. The acaricidal effect was assessed at intervals of 12 hours up to 72 hours after spraying.   Results and Conclusion: The mortality of Roiella indica was proportional to the increase in extract concentrations for both green and ripe papaya fruit seeds. It was concluded that aqueous extracts from green and ripe papaya fruit seeds exhibit acaricidal activity against adult red palm mites under laboratory conditions.   Research Implications: Papaya seeds at different stages effectively controlled red palm mites under laboratory conditions.   Originality/Value: This research contributes by exploring the potential of an agricultural residue as a pest control agent in agriculture and demonstrating its potential for more sustainable agricultural practices.