Plant extracts in the control of aphids Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer)

Abstract

Were accomplished the effect of plant extracts of clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.), horsetail (Equisetum hyemale L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) on Brevicoryne brassicae (L., 1758) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer, 1776) aphids in cabbage Brassica oleracea (L.). The treatments consisted of plant extracts prepared fresh and dry (concentrations of 2.5; 5.0; and 10%) and the controls insecticide acephate and water. These solutions were sprayed on cabbage discs placed on agar in Petri dishes, containing twenty adult aphids. In sequence, the Petri dishes were sealed with plastic film and this procedure was repeated for the two aphid species studied. The assessment of the number of live nymphs and adults occurred at 1, 12, 24, and 72 hours after installation. The extracts of coriander and tobacco prepared in a concentration of 10% showed toxic effects similar to the organophosphate insecticide acephate, on adults and nymphs of the aphids Brevicoryne brassicae and Myzus persicae. Coriander revealed a promising alternative that deserves detailed studies regarding the performance of its active ingredients and dosage determination in order to provide a safe herbal product to control insects.