Toxicity and Egg-Laying Suppression by Natural Oils in Controlling Sitophilus granarius and S. oryzae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Background Recurrent and extensive and application of chemical insecticides for managing stored grain pests Has led to numerous negative" consequences, With the development of being one example insecticide increased resistance, contamination of the environment, and dangers to public health. As an alternative, essential oils (EOs) represent a low-risk and environmentally sustainable pest" management strategy. They exhibit strong ability to kill insects and control a wide variety of pest species while also being readily biodegradable and environmentally benign. Additionally, their complex and diverse chemical profiles reduce the likelihood of resistance development in storage pest populations. Methods The four essential oils used in this study were extracted from dried plant materials through steam distillation. Their toxic effects, including lethal concentration levels, as well as their ability to deter egg-laying, were evaluated against the target insect species. Results Prunus amygdalus was the most toxic oil against tested insects. The oils have a stronger impact on Sitophilus granarius than S. oryzae . After 90 days of storage, the adult fertility (mean no. of eggs/ female) was greatly significantly suppressed with P. amygdalus and Dianthus caryophyllus oils at 3% conc. comparing with untreated control. Conclusion P. amygdalus oil was the most toxic oil and completely inhibited egg deposition of tested insects. P. amygdalus oil can be used in integrated pest management programs as an effective alternative to chemical pesticides."