Effect of Plant Oils against the Main Insect Pest of Stored Products, Sitophilus Oryzae, in Wheat Grains

Abstract

Laboratory experiments were carried out to evaluate the three tested plant oils, neem (Azadirachta indica), moringa (Moringa oleifera), and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) against Sitophilus oryzae adults, to prevent or minimize the infestation of wheat grains by this insect. To achieve this aim, the current study examined the contact and fumigant toxicity of the oils, their effects on emerged adults, the percentage reduction, and their impact on weight loss. Further studies were conducted to investigate the side effects of these oils on the quality parameters of wheat grains by determining the percentages of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, and ash. The results showed that the tested oils had marked effects on the parameters of toxicity, progeny, and weight loss. Additionally, the increase in concentration and exposure period led to an increase in the effects of these plant oils. Furthermore, the responses of insect adults to the tested oils were varied. The side effects of the tested oils on some quality parameters of wheat grains showed slight differences relative to those of the control. The current study suggests using the tested oils in an integrated pest management program for stored-product insects, especially S. oryzae adults.