Biopotential of microalgal extracts as a mosquito larvicide: An eco-friendly approach to control Aedes aegypti

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: The use of chemical pesticides has raised concerns about their safety and toxicological effects on the environment, people, and other species. Therefore, there is a demand for natural alternatives that are eco- friendly, biodegradable, and target specific. The purpose of this study was to test the larvicidal activity of three microalgae namely, Chlorella sp., Chlorococcum sp., and Scenedesmus sp., against Aedes aegypti. Materials and Methods: The microalgal extracts were prepared with different concentrations after suitable pretreatment and extraction process. The effect of extracts was tested on Aedes aegypti larvae exposed to different concentrations after 24 and 48 hours. Results: The ethanol extract of the Scenedesmus sp. showed the highest larvicidal activity. Whereas the larvicidal activity of methanol extract of the Chlorococcum sp. was the lowest. The phytochemical screening of algal extracts revealed the presence of phytochemicals present in the microalgal extracts namely flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, quinones, saponins, and cellulose Conclusion: This study demonstrated the biopotential of microalgae extracts for the control of the dengue vector, Aedes aegypti. Thus, the use of microalgae can be considered as an alternative to the conventional insecticides as it is more sustainable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly.