Effect of plant extracts on biochemistry of Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett)

Abstract

The present study was to postulate hypothesis to generate vegetable crops with increased level of bioactive compounds against pests thus modifying the antioxidant capacities. To accomplish this, the expression of some antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes in Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) larvae after treatment with plant (Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn.) derived fractions was analyzed. The increased concentrations of these fractions in artificial diet of larvae showed altered activities of enzymes. Artificial diet incorporated with these fractions showed improved antioxidant capacity; however, there is a complex relationship between antioxidant capacity and selected phytochemical content, suggesting the role of these compounds in antioxidant potential of plants.