The effect of jujube oil on some biological activities of Culex pipiens mosquito

Abstract

Synthetic insecticides are quick, effective and most popular methods of pest control. But because of their unfavorable effects on environment and non-target organisms, there is a growing need to find new, safe effective alternatives. Plant extracts represent the most promising alternative. The present study aims to evaluate jujube plant as a promising candidate. LC₄₀ of Jujube oil and Jujube extract using petroleum ether as a solvent were investigated against Culex pipiens larvae. The results showed the reduction of egg hatchability, interruption of molting stages and the inhibition of adult mosquitoes emergence cause by application of LC₄₀ jujube oil and jujube extract at 3^rd larval stage. Sex ratio was reduced by jujube extract but pure jujube oil has no effect on sex ratio. In the light of these results, jujube plant is recommended as a promising herbal candidate for integrated pest management instead of chemical insecticides.