Insecticidal potential of botanicals: Mechanisms and bioactivities against stored grain pests - A mini review Devi Monika1, Roheen Uzma1, Rawat Preeti Sharma1, Mohan Lalit* Applied Entomology and Vector Control Laboratory Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Dayalbagh Educational Institute (Deemed to be University), Agra - 282 005, Uttar Pradesh, India 1Department of Life Sciences, University School of Science, Rayat-Bahra University, Mohali - 140 103, Punjab, India *Corresponding authors' E-mail : lalitmohan_dei@rediffmail.com
Online published on 20 December, 2024. Abstract Numerous stored grain insect pests infest and damage food grains in farmer’s granaries and public warehouses which flourish due to uncontrolled environmental conditions and poor ware housing technology. The heavy use of synthetic pesticides has generated environmental degradation and health issues, which is one of the major concerns for environmentalists and the general public for decades. Further, the use of synthetic chemical insecticides is either not permitted or used restrictively due to concerns about residue problem and health risks to consumers. In this situation, there is a need for screening and development of plant resources that may serve as substitutes to current insect control agents, as the plants are rich in bioactive molecules. Specifically, safer alternatives like botanicals and their essential oils are desirable for managing storage insect pests. Plant-derived pesticides are biodegradable, diverse in their biological activity, and have low toxicity to non-target organisms. These natural products are a storehouse of various bioactive molecules, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols and terpenes, which serve important ecological functions acting as antifeedants, attractants, nematicides, fungicides, repellents, insecticides, insect growth regulators, and allelopathic agents. They are promising sources for new pest control agents or biopesticides. Present efforts highlights the bio-pesticidal properties of secondary metabolites found in various plant parts including leaves, stems, bark, flowers, fruits, seeds, cloves and rhizomes. These natural compounds disrupt the growth and further impacts the feeding and reproduction of stored grain pests, offering an eco-friendly pest management solution. Important amongst the bioactive compounds, terpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols can provide effective alternative pest control strategies that can lessen environmental degradation and health risks related to indiscriminate use of conventional synthetic insecticides and hence, promoting a sustainable agricultural practice. Top Keywords Botanical pesticides, Insecticidal activity, Larvicidal activity, Mode of action, Ovicidal activity, Repellence, Stored pests. Top |