INSECTICIDAL POTENTIAL OF PLANT POWDERS AND HYDROALCOHOLIC EXTRACTS FOR THE CONTROL OF Callosobruchus maculatus IN COWPEA SEEDS

Abstract

The storage of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is severely impacted by infestation by the bruchid Callosobruchus maculatus, highlighting the need for sustainable control methods. Although synthetic insecticides are widely used, plant-based products have emerged as an alternative to reduce the persistence of toxic residues and the development of insect resistance, while also contributing to Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This study evaluated the mortality and oviposition of adult C. maculatus using plant materials derived from angico (Anadenanthera colubrina), barbatimão (Stryphnodendron adstringens), sesame (Sesamum indicum), and mata-cachorro (Simarouba versicolor), applied as powders (1 g per 6 g of seeds) and as 10% hydroalcoholic extracts (1 mL per 6 g of seeds). The results showed that all treatments resulted in high mortality (above 90%), with the hydroalcoholic extract of S. versicolor showing 100% efficacy. Regarding oviposition, the hydroalcoholic extract of barbatimão and the powders of angico and barbatimão were the most effective in reducing oviposition. It can be concluded that these materials have high bioinsecticidal potential for use in Integrated Pest Management (IPM).