Neemseed powder, as a protectant for dried Tilapia Fish against Dermestes maculatus Degeer infestation

Abstract

Various stages of Dermestes maculatus DeGeer were placed in specimen jars in contact with dried Tilapia fish treated separately with 0.25, 0.50, 1 and 2 g of neemseed powder per 25 g of fish. Neem powder significantly inhibited oviposition and killed the adults. Neem has no ovicidal action, but incubation period was prolonged. In treated fish, larvae did not develop beyond the second instar and 93 % of larvae died by day 30. Minimal frass was produced in treated fish. The aesthetic attractiveness of the fish was high.