Effect of leaf extract of <i>Azadirachta indica</i> and plant ash on <i>Callosobruchus maculatus</i> attacking <i>Vigna unguiculata</i> seedlings

Abstract

Seedlings of Vigna unguiculata L. Walp attacked by the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus were treated with water extracts of fresh leaves of Azadirachta indica A. Juss and plant ash separately. The extract was found to exhibit an insecticidal effect. It has an antifeedant and growth regulating effects on the pulse beetle. It inhibited molting, caused sterility, loss of flying ability, disrupted sexual communication and reduced motility. The dry plant ash caused mortality of the pulse beetle. The results obtained showed that C. maculatus caused a great negative effect on the leaf size, pod length, and number of seeds per pod of affected V. unguiculata. This effect is controlled or minimized by the right dosage of extract of A. indica and plant ash on affected seedlings of V. unguiculata.