Effect of Citrus sinensis peel extract containing Ag-TiO2 nanocomposite on the percent mortality of Aedes aegypti larvae

Abstract

To date, no efficient method exists for controlling Aedes aegypti, the vector of the dengue virus, and there is no definitive treatment for dengue fever. As synthetic insecticides can induce vector resistance, alternative vector controls comprising secondary plant metabolites and nano composites, such asAg-TiO2, have been investigated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Citrus sinensis peel alcoholic extract containing Ag-TiO2 on the percent mortality of A. aegypti larvae. This experimental study included a control group and the following three treatment groups: 1) C. sinensis peel extract alone at five different concentrations (100–500 ppm), 2) Ag-TiO2 nanocomposite alone at five different concentrations (5–25 ppm), and 3) C. sinensis peel extract and Ag-TiO2 mixture. Significant positive correlations were observed between Ag-TiO2 concentrations and the percent mortality of A. aegypti larvae (R = 0.823, P <0.05). Our findings indicate that the addition of Ag-TiO2 increases the larvicidal effect of C. sinensis peel extract.