Smoke repellency and mosquito larvicidal potentiality of Mesua ferra L. leaf extract against filarial vector Culex quinquefasciatus Say

Abstract

Objective Present study was made to evaluate the smoke repellent potentiality and mosquito larvicidal activity of Mesua ferra (M. ferra) leaves against filarial vector Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus). Methods Crude, petroleum-ether, chloroform: methanol (1:1 v/v) and ethyl acetate extracts of mature plant leaves were investigated to establish its biocontrol potentiality under laboratory condition against larvae of Cx. quinquefasciatus at different concentrations i.e. 25 ppm, 50 ppm and 75 ppm. Mosquito coil prepared from M. ferra leaves powder were tested for smoke toxicity effect against Cx. quinquefasciatus adult mosquitoes. Results The mortality rates of crude extract at 0.5% concentration were higher than all other concentrations tested against the first, second, third and fourth instars larvae at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h of exposure. Larval mortality rate in chloroform: methanol (1:1 v/v) extract was significantly higher ( P<0.05) than other extracts. LC 50 value of petroleum ether, chloroform: methanol (1:1 v/v) and ethyl acetate extracts were 195.33 ppm, 27.28 ppm and 74.19 ppm respectively, after 48 h of exposure. Smoke exposed gravid females oviposited fewer eggs when compared to non exposed female mosquitoes. Conclusions In conclusion M. ferra crude and chloroform: methanol (1:1) extract can be used effectively against mosquito control programmes. Smoke from M. ferra can play an important role in the interruption of transmission of those diseases where mosquitoes act as vector at the individual level.