Abstract:
Thisstudy was aimed to evaluate the effect of Neem (Azadirachta indica) seeds ethanolic extract on the groundnut seed beetle (Caryedon serratus), which considered as an economic important pest of groundnut in North Darfur especially Alliet Jar Elnabi locality the famous place of groundnut production.
The first survey was conducted in the month of April, 2015 to determine the infestation by C. serratus. Therefore five stores were selected randomly for investigationof presence of adults, any other stages and exit holes on groundnut fruits. Also a second survey was done in May, 2015.
The survey revealed the presence of all stages of groundnut seed beetle at all selected stores.
The laboratory experiments were carried out at the Faculty of Environmental Science and Natural Resource, University of El Fasher. During the period from April to June, 2015. The insects reared were done in plastic Jars under laboratory condition, temperature ranged from (30 to 35ₒc).
The results revealed that there were significant differences between all concentrations of Neem seeds ethanolic extract and the control on both adults and larvae.
The highest concentration 5% ethanolic extract of Neem seeds gave mortality 82.5% and 90% against both adults and larvae respectively and there was no significant differences between the tested extracts and the standard insecticide (Malathion).Also the same concentration 5% induced repellency (%)of90% and 87.5% after 48 hours of treatment respectively on adults and larvae.
From these results we recommended that Neem seeds ethanolic extract 5% can be used for controlling adult and larvae of groundnut seed beetle. Also recommended that further studies should be made to confirm these results until this extract become one of the safe alternatives against this pest in the future.
