Insecticidal Effects of Eucalyptus globules and Azadirachta indica Leaves against Callosobruchus muculatus in Vigna unguiculata Storage.

Abstract

The insecticidal potentials of Eucalyptus globules and Azadirachita were determined against Callosobruchus muculatus cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) storage as well as the complementary effect of both botanicals in controlling these weevils. Cowpea grains from two different varieties (“Kananado” and “Drum”) were used. Azadirachita indica, Eucalyptus globules and their combination were the treatments used. The treatment were mixed with the cowpea grain and stored in jute bags. They were stored for ten weeks using complete Randomized Design (CRD). Data were collected every two weeks of storage (until the 10th week) on grain weight, weight of undamaged and damaged grain, number of weevils and average grain hole per seed. The findings (P<0.05) in the grain weight, weight of damaged and undamaged grain and the number of weevils at week two, four and six. A significant reduction in the potency of these botanicals was found at week eight and ten. However, complementary effect (combination of Eucalyptus globules and Azadirachita indica) was found in controlling the cowpea weevil at week eight and ten than individual botanicals.