Effect of <i>Chromolaena odorata</i> (L.) R.M. King & H. Rob. Leaf Extract on Oviposition in <i>Rhipicephalus microplus</i> Canestrini, 1888

Abstract

Rhipicephalus microplus infestation in livestock is associated with animal health and economic losses. There are also environmental safety concerns regarding Rhipicephalus microplus control using synthethic acaricides, calling for affordable and safer interventions for their control. This study assessed the effect of dichloromethane extract of Chromolaena odorata leaf on oviposition in Rhipicephalus microplus. Using topical application procedures, Chromolaena odorata leaf extract treatment of Rhipicephalus microplus was observed to significantly affect the number of eggs laid, H (5) = 36.25, p < 0.001. The significant differences in eggs laid were observed between the control group and: 3.125 mg/ml (p = 0.002), 12.5 mg/ml (p = 0.001), 25 mg/ml (p < 0.001), 50 mg/ml (p < 0.001) treated groups of tick, but not control and 6.25 mg/ml (p = 0.077) treated groups of tick. A dichloromethane extract of Chromolaena odorata leaf demonstrates its potential use for effective control of Rhipicephalus microplus and may be considered for development of acaricidal compounds.