Efficacy of root extracts from Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) against the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Forskål 1775) (Orthoptera: Acrididae)

Abstract

Trials were conducted in the laboratories of CIRAD- Prifas in Montpellier, France, during the years 2000 -2003 to evaluate the bio-activity of Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) against the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Roots of M. pruriens were collected from the vicinity of Zalingai town, Central Darfur State, Sudan. The collected materials were then processed, extracted and screened for their efficacy as contact insecticide against the desert locust. Knockdown and mortality were considered as yardsticks for efficacy. Extracts of Neem (Azadirachta indica) seed kernels and Deltametherin were used as standard botanical and synthetic insecticides respectively. M. pruriens extracts mixed with Deltametherin in a series of dilutions with water which were then tested for their additive effect as locusticide. The test materials were evaluated through series of bioassays by direct spraying on the insect. The obtained data were analyzed using M-stat-c software statistical package. M. pruriens extracts recorded knockdown of 88.00±1.94% and mortality of 77.00±1.69%, while Neem extracts recorded knockdown of 15±1.22% and mortality of 90±1.78%. Deltametherin as standard gave 100% efficacy in term of knockdown and mortality. Additive effect was noticed in knockdown and mortality when M. pruriens/ Deltametherin mixtures were applied. The study concluded that Mucuna being a cheap natural product, which can easily be obtained and processed in a simple way, may be of practical importance in future locust control activities.