Comparative effects of Azadirachta indica and Ocimum tenuiflorum extracts on Haritalodes derogata (Fabricius, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Abstract
Hibiscus is an important plant cultivated in large numbers in Indian systems of medicine and perfumery. Haritalodes derogata is a common pest of Hibiscus species, feeding on their leaves in large numbers and causing considerable loss in harvest. In the present study, last instar larvae of H. derogata were fed with leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica and Ocimum tenuiflorum. Mortality, pupation success, and adult emergence were monitored over 14 days. A. indica extract caused significantly higher and faster mortality compared to O. tenuiflorum, resulting in 100% mortality by Day 5. It also induced larval body shrinkage, production of orange-coloured fluid fecal matter, and complete inhibition of pupation. In contrast, O. tenuiflorum caused only 12.5% mortality by Day 5, with most larvae proceeding to pupation and adult emergence, though adults died subsequently. The findings demonstrate the superior efficacy of A. indica extract as a potent botanical insecticide for managing H. derogata infestations.
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Introduction
Haritalodes derogata (Fabricius, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae: Spilomelinae) is a common pest of plants belonging to the Malvaceae family and is found to severely infest many Hibiscus species. The larvae feed on the leaves in high numbers, causing defoliation, premature ripening of bolls, and thereby impairing bud formation (Tabesh et al., 2015). The larvae habitually roll the leaves of their host plant and consume the leaf margins, causing the leaves to curl and droop. H. derogata was first recorded as a serious pest of cotton in India (Sidhu & Dhawan, 1979). Hibiscus is considered an important medicinal plant with bioactive properties and is recommended as an herbal alternative to cure many diseases (Obi et al., 1998). It also possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties (Mak et al., 2012). The quality and quantity of raw materials obtained from medicinal plants are adversely affected by attacks from numerous insect pests in cultivated areas.
The use of synthetic and chemical pesticides creates many environmental hazards and affects non-target beneficial organisms. Botanical extracts offer a sustainable alternative. Azadirachta indica (Neem) contains potent bioactive compounds like azadirachtin, known for their antifeedant, growth regulatory, and insecticidal properties. Ocimum tenuiflorum (Tulsi) contains various essential oils and compounds such as eugenol and ursolic acid, which exhibit insecticidal and repellent activities. While the potential of natural products like Neem and Tulsi has been evaluated against many insects, no studies have been conducted on H. derogata. In the present investigation, the comparative effects of A. indica and O. tenuiflorum leaf extracts on the larvae of Haritalodes derogata have been studied.
Conclusion
Azadirachta indica leaf extract caused significant and rapid mortality (100% by Day 5), larval body shrinkage, fluid fecal matter, and complete inhibition of pupation in Haritalodes derogata. Ocimum tenuiflorum extract caused only marginal mortality (12.5% by Day 5) and did not prevent pupation or adult emergence, though emerged adults were non-viable. Therefore, A. indica extract is significantly more effective than O. tenuiflorum extract against this pest. The superior efficacy, coupled with its ability to halt development completely, demonstrates the strong potential of A. indica extract as a key component in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for protecting Hibiscus cultivations from H. derogata
References
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