Toxicity of Caulerpa scalpelliformis selected fractions with fatty acids on Porthesia scintillans

Abstract

Porthesia scintillans, a serious pest threat to major crops. Here, we evaluated the toxicity of Caulerpa scalpelliformis fractions (CSF1, CSF2, and CSF3) against P. scintillans. Fraction CSF1 attracted P. scintillans larvae whereas CSF2 and CSF3 showed repellency. P. scintillans showed significant higher insecticidal activity when fed with CSF2 fraction sprayed castor leaves. Similar observation was recorded in standards, vijayneem and monocrotophos. The GC–MS analysis of CSF2 and CSF3 described hexadecanoic acid, octadecenoic acid, and octadecatrienoic acid which might promote insecticidal activity. Hence, fatty acid based C. scalpelliformis extract preparations may be used for safe and eco-friendly agricultural pest.

Keywords:

• Green algae
• phytotoxicant
• biopesticides
• horticulture pest

Acknowledgements

KS thanks the authorities of St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai 627002, Tirunelveli for the facilities. CR thanks the Director, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula 403004, Goa, India for the support and encouragement.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.