.Insecticidal Effect and Chemical Composition of Some Essential Oils on Larval Survival of Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Laboratory Conditions

Abstract

Aims:The Mediterranean fruit fly, medfly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a serious pest of many fruits and vegetables. This study was conducted to determine antifeeding and insecticidal activities of some essential oils extracted from Pelargonium graveolens (Geraniaceae), geranium, Lavandula intermedia Mill. (Lamiaceae), lavender, Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) black cumin, and Laurus nobilis L. (Lauraceae), laurel, against second instars of the Medfly on artificial diet. Material and Methods:The essential oils were obtained by Clevenger-type water distillation and a laboratory reared medfly colony was used in the study. Each tested essential oils with 6 different doses were distributed over the artificial diet in a Petri dish having 20 larvae. All experiments were performed under laboratory conditions of 23±1°C, 50% RH and 16: 8 (L:D) photoperiods. Probit MsChart was used to estimate LC50 and LC90 values of the tested essential oils. GGE Biplot analyzes were created with the larval mortality based on the different essential oil doses. Results: As results, the highest larval mortality was determined with addition of laurel and black cumin oils into the diet. The highest mortality was detected in black cumin oil at the lowest concentrations. Based on GGE Biplot analyzes, the essential oil of black cumin has observable larvicidal properties. Discussion: The results were provided fundemental information about insecticidal and antifeeding properties of the medfly in laboratory. Conclusions:Further studies needed to integrate sustainable management programmes with natural insecticides against the medfly larvae.