Repellent Effects of Annona Crude Seed Extract on the Asian Subterranean Termite Coptotermes gestroi Wasmann (Isoptera:Rhinotermitidae)

摘要

Crude seed extract of three tropical fruits belonging to the family Annonaceae, viz., sweetsop ( Annona squamosa L.), soursop ( A. muricata L.) and biriba ( Rollinia mucosa Baill.) were investigated for their repellent effects on the Asian subterranean termite Coptotermes gestroi Wasmann (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae ). ?Results of laboratory feeding bioassay (choice and no-choice) indicated that crude extract of A. squamosa, A. muricata and R. mucosa had feeding deterrent effects on C. gestroi .? Termites showed significant avoidance behavior to filter paper treated with extracts of the three Annona species investigated.? Soil barrier test revealed that Annona extracts were able to limit penetration of C. gestroi in laboratory tunneling test.? The results suggest that Annona seed extracts may offer an alternative source of natural insecticide against subterranean termites.