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Evaluation of semiochemical toxicity to Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus and Anopheles quadrimaculatus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Author(s) -
Kaufman Phillip E,
Mann Rajinder S,
Butler Jerry F
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
pest management science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.296
H-Index - 125
eISSN - 1526-4998
pISSN - 1526-498X
DOI - 10.1002/ps.1899
Subject(s) - semiochemical , aedes aegypti , aedes albopictus , biology , toxicology , anopheles , aedes , toxicity , pesticide , larva , zoology , botany , malaria , pest analysis , ecology , chemistry , immunology , organic chemistry
BACKGROUND: Mosquitoes are the most important vectors of human pathogens. Wide‐scale use of pesticides has led to the development of resistance to most common insecticide groups. The need to develop novel products that have a low impact on human health and the environment is well established. The toxicity of selected semiochemicals with molecular structures indicative of insecticidal activity was determined against adult Aedes aegypti (L.) and Anopheles quadrimaculatus (Say). The two most active insecticides against Ae. aegypti were also evaluated against Ae. albopictus (Skuse). RESULTS: Fifteen semiochemicals classified as terpenoid alcohols, ketones or carboxylic esters showed toxicity to both mosquito species. Geranyl acetone (LC 50 = 38.51 µg cm −2 ) followed by citronellol (LC 50 = 48.55 µg cm −2 ) were the most toxic compounds to Ae. aegypti , while geraniol and lavonax, with LC 50 values of 31.88 and 43.40 µg cm −2 , showed the highest toxicity to An. quadrimaculatus . Both geranyl acetone and citronellol were highly toxic to Ae. albopioctus. No semiochemical showed fumigation activity against either species. All semiochemicals persisted for less than 24 h when tested on filter paper. CONCLUSION: Quantification of LC 50 values of several semiochemicals against Ae. Aegypti, An. quadrimaculatus and Ae. albopioctus showed that semiochemicals not only modify insect behaviors but also hold potential as potent insecticides for mosquito control programs. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry