Abstract: The efficacy of various parts of Jatropha curcas in the control of termites was considered in the laboratory. These parts which included the leaves, seeds, bark and the roots were pulverized and diluted in non-toxic polar (ethanol) and non-polar (n-hexane) solvents to extract the active ingredient. In the laboratory experiment, the extracts obtained from the different parts were tested for mortality on termite castes. 5ml of various extracts obtained from pulverized parts of the plant were applied on 10 termites containing five soldiers and five workers which were earlier obtained from a termitarium. The in vitro tests conducted in a petri dish in the laboratory consisted of three replicates for each extract. Mortality rates of termites was observed and recorded at 15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds interval while data obtained were analyzed and means of values separated using Tukey’s Honestly Significant Test. Data obtained showed that all the extracts were effective in the control of termites while n-hexane bark was significantly different showing the highest mortality rate compared to other treatments.
Keywords: Pest control, Jatropha curcas, Plant extract, termite, Akungba-Akoko.
Title: The Adopted Use of Jatropha Curcas in the Control of Termites (Microcerotermes Beesoni)
Author: Olotuah, O.F.
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations
ISSN 2348-1218 (print), ISSN 2348-1226 (online)
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