Laboratory evaluation of insecticidal and repellent activity of essential oils against the Mediterranean fruit fly
Abstract
The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly) is a major pest affecting fruit crops worldwide. Growing concerns over insecticide resistance and environmental impacts have increased interest in botanical alternatives such as essential oils (EOs). This study evaluated the insecticidal and repellent activities of essential oils from Rosmarinus officinalis, Lavandula officinalis, and Eucalyptus globulus against adult medflies under laboratory conditions. Oils were tested at concentrations of 0.08%, 0.16%, 0.32%, and 0.64% (v/v) using topical application and filter paper bioassays. Mortality was recorded at 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, while repellency was assessed after 2 hours. All treatments showed significant insecticidal and repellent effects compared to controls (p < 0.05). Eucalyptus globulus exhibited the highest mortality and repellency, particularly at 0.64%. These findings highlight the potential of essential oils as effective alternatives to synthetic insecticides.
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