Efficacy of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Using Juniperus phoenicea in Controlling Rice Weevil (Sitophilus oryzae) and Its Effect on the Microbial Contents and Nutritive Value of Grains

Abstract

The rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae is a primary pest attack many kinds of crops. It causes a lot of loss and reduces the economic values of products. The study investigated to determine the insecticidal effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles using Juniperus phoenicea (TiO2 NPs) against the insect, and the nutritional and antimicrobial value of rice grains after treatment by TiO2 NPs was estimated. Adult was the target of bioassay of the biocomponent. Four concentrations were prepared as 30, 50, 80 and 100%. Some biochemical components were evaluated as response indicators of insect. Obtained data demonstrated significant differences between the four concentrations, where the highest mortality was recorded after 120 h. On the adults (85%). Treatment with the titanium dioxide nanoparticles inhibited the activities of acetylcholine esterase and total soluble protein. While it increases the activity of catalase as antioxidant enzyme. Nutritional values increased with increasing the proportion of TiO2 NPs, except for the decrease in protein. No colonization of coliform bacteria and fungi cell was recorded in 80% of TiO2 NPs, aerobic bacteria were reduced to a lower number 12 CFU/g 103 at 100%. Biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles with J. phoenicea extract is promising bio-insecticide and antimicrobial in integrated pest management control, preserving the nutritional value of grains during storage.