Examining the larval morphology of Aedes aegypti to Carica papaya extracts

Abstract

Controlling mosquito larvae is a crucial strategy in managing outbreaks of severe vector-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Utilizing plant-derived constituents for larviciding presents an environmentally friendly and effective approach to reducing mosquito populations. A significant advantage is that these constituents can be easily and economically prepared by farmers and small-scale industries, either in their crude form or as partially purified extracts. The Aedes aegypti larvae were treated with seed aqueous and ethanolic extracts, ranging from the lowest dose of 1% to the highest dose of 5%, for morphological analysis. The seeds of Carica papaya demonstrate notable efficacy as a mosquito larvicidal agent, with increased mortality observed in correlation with concentration. Treatment with Carica papaya seed extracts induces morphological changes in both the external and internal structures of Aedes larvae. This includes the development of a weakened and shrunken body, a delicate larval skin, and cytological alterations in the mid-gut, abdomen, and siphon region.