Balanites aegyptiaca as a Mosquito Larvicide

Abstract

Balanites aegyptiaca was investigated as a mosquito larvicide. LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values and the nature of active constituents were studied. Second instar larvae were more susceptible than fourth instar larvae in all cases. The larvae of Anopheles arabiensis were more susceptible than Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti to its larvicidal effects. Saponins extracted from fruit kernel were tested against second and fourth instar larvae of the three mosquito species, and LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values were determined. The saponin was more active than the water extract, indicating that the saponin may be the active compound.