Influence of Azadirachitin on the ecdysone controlled developmental processes . in the stored grain pest, Tribolium confusum (Du Val.)
DOI:10.36108/NJE/8991/51.0110
VARDHINI, D., MARY, A., RAJA, S. and RENUKA, P
ABSTRACT
Azadirachtin, a potent antifeedant and growth regulator isolated from the neem tree Azadirachta indica A. Juss was tested against the stored grain pest Tribolium confusum (duval). Optimum growth regulating effect was observed at 1000 ppm of azadirachtin. The larval development to adults was greatly reduced. Pupal mortality and abnormally developed adults were also observed. The strong influence of azadirachtin on larval – pupa and pupal – adult moults is interpreted as an interference with moulting hormone pools, thus signifying azadirachtin’s role as a potential tool in controlling the stored grain pest T. confusum (Duval).