Potential of Dioscorea bulbifera L. as a bio-insecticide in controlling dry wood termites (Cryptotermes cynocephalus Ligh.)

Abstract

Currently, chemical control techniques prevent termite attacks, but these chemicals’ effects are concerning because they negatively impact human health and the environment. Therefore, pest control is focused on alternative insecticides that are effective, selective, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly. Several secondary metabolites from the methanolic extract of Dioscorea bulbifera leaves have insecticidal activities. This study aimed to examine the potential of D. bulbifera extract as a bio-insecticide in controlling dry-wood termites (Cryptotermes cynocephalus Light.). The study was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven treatments and three replications. The treatment in this study was a combination of concentration and source of D. bulbifera extract. Parameters observed were termite mortality, weight loss percentage of the paper disc, and damage degree. Based on the One-Way ANOVA test at a 5% significance level, the treatment had a significant effect on mortality but had no significant effect on the weight loss percentage and the degree of damage. A concentration of 50% from D. bulbifera extract leaves was able to control dry wood termites with mortality of 70.97%., a weight loss percentage of 33.88%, and a degree of damage of 65.05%. This result indicates that D. bulbifera has the potential as a bio-insecticide in controlling dry wood termites.