Control of Seed Bruchid [Callosobruchus maculates F.] Infestation in Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] with Clausena anisata Hook (Rutaceae).

Abstract

Clausena anisata Hook has shown repellency and antifeedant effects on some insect pests.  In this paper, we report toxicity of C. anisata leaf powder and its extract (applied at 2.5% concentration) to cowpea seed bruchid (CSB) [Callosbruchus maculatus F.], deterrence of oviposition and suppression of development to adult stage.  Bioactivity persisted for over 4½ months (140 days).  The leaf powder had acute toxicity inferior to permethrin (Cooper 0.5% dust) in short duration test but its long term control was equivalent with the pyrethroid insecticide.  The leaf powder was, however, more potent (P<0.05) than either the stem or root bark powder in reducing bruchid population and seed damage.  The minimum effective rate of application of C. anisata leaf powder or its extract was 0.62% concentration.