Evaluation of larvicidal activity of Parthenium hysterophorus against Aedes aegypti

Abstract

The present study was conducted to find out the larvicidal effect of Parthenium hysterophorus against 2nd and 3rd in star Aedes aegypti larvae. Leaves and stem extracts were used, extracts divided into two parts, the first part (stored stock extract) stored for 45 days and then its activity was checked against larvae while the second part (fresh stock extract) was used immediately. Different concentrations of fresh and stored stock extracts were made and tested against A. aegypti. Results showed that all the extracts (with different concentrations) were found to be most useful against larvae of A. aegypti. Percentage mortality of larvae from leaves stored stock solution was calculated to be 80% while percentage mortality through leaves fresh stock solution was calculated as 100%. The fresh stock solution of leaves prepared in 200g/500ml distilled water was most effective against the larvae and caused 100% mortality. The larvae died within 30 minutes in this fresh solution of leaves. So, it is determined that P. hysterophorus leaves can be used as larvicidal against Aedes aegypti. It is concluded that as the use of synthetic chemicals are associated with many problems and mosquitoes can also cause resistance against a lot of chemicals therefore, the development of new strategies is necessary. Bio-pesticides are more useful than chemical pesticides because they are less harmful, toxic and cause less environmental pollution. The use of plants as larvicidals agents are very useful and can be used as substitute against pesticides.