Insecticidal and repellent activity of native and exotic lemongrass on Maize weevil

Abstract

Abstract Corn crop, due to its easy adaptation to the most diverse agroecosystems, spreads throughout the different regions of the world, making it one of the most important agricultural crops. In this crop, pest insects stand out for causing losses both in the field and in warehouses. The application of essential oils can be an important technique to be investigated in the management of insects due to its known insecticidal activity and low risk to the environment. The objective of the work was to value the insecticide and repellent effect of essential oils of exotic lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and native lemongrass (Elionurus sp.) for the management of maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais (Mots., 1855, Coleoptera: Curculionidae)). The chemical analysis of the oils made by CG-MS showed that the chemical composition of the native and exotic lemongrass is similar, however, the exotic species presented a greater number of compounds. The essential oils of native and exotic lemon grass have efficiency on maize weevil mortality, and it is verified that the increase in the applied dose reflects in a reduction in the insect's exposure time for death to occur. The essential oil of both species showed repellent capacity at all times evaluated. Thus, it can be said that both species have the capacity and potential to be used in the management of corn weevil, and can be an alternative for smallhorders farmers and organic production.