Insecticidal capacity of polyphenolic seed compounds from neem (Azadirachta indica) on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal activity of the polyphenolic compounds found in neem on S. frugiperda larvae. Three neem extracts (1:12 (m/v) with 70% ethanol, 1:12 (m/v) with 0% ethanol (only water), and 1:4 (m/v) with 0% ethanol) were employed. Subsequently, the extraction of phytochemical compounds of each extract was performed using ultrasound and microwave technologies simultaneously. The compound characterization was performed by HPLC-mass. In addition, the insecticidal evaluation of the neem extract was performed against S. frugiperda of the second-stage larvae. The extracts were applied by spraying the larvae according to each bioassay. Results showed that the extract obtained with a 1:12 (m/v) relationship and 70% ethanol was effective for the control of S. frugiperda larvae. In this extract, the predominant organic compound families were: methoxyflavones, flavonols, hydroxycoumarins, anthocyanins, methoxycinnamic acid, and alkylflavones. Phytochemical compounds obtained from neem seeds with environmentally friendly solvents and alternative technologies (ultrasound and microwave) have potent insecticidal activity against S. frugiperda larvae.