Bioactive leaf extracts of thorn apple (Datura stramonium l.) as an alternative to synthetic pesticides for fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E Smith) management in maize (Zea mays L.)

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Kumbirai Maurawa , Kasirayi Makaza, Nyasha Sakadzo , Michael Mubvuma, Pardon Chidoko , Rutendo Nyamusamba

Department of Soil and Plant Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, P. Box 1235, Masvingo, Zimbabwe

Maize productivity is still far below its potential as one of the major cereals since 2016 cropping season. Fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E Smith) has confirmed to be an invasive, voracious and polyphagous insect pest of economic importance worldwide which has emerged from one season to the next. It requires adoption of low cost alternatives such as the use of botanical pesticides. A laboratory experiment was carried out to assess the potency of bioactive leaf extracts of thorn apple (Datura stramonium l.) as an alternative to synthetic pesticides for fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E Smith) management in maize (Zea mays L.). Maize foliage diets were used in this study. A Complete Randomised Design (CRD) was used with five treatments replicated three times. Treatments included; negative control (Distilled water), 30% (30grams D. stramonium per 100ml distilled water), 60% (60grams D. stramonium per 100ml distilled water), 100% (100grams D. stramonium per 100ml distilled water) and a positive control (Demise) at label dose. D. stramonium extract was toxic to FAW. Results indicated that there were no significant differences (p>0.05) amongst the D. stramonium dosages (60% and 100%) and the positive control at 6, 8 and 10 hrs. Significant differences (p<0.05) were realized amongst the three treatments (60%, 100% and positive control (Demise)) and the negative control (distilled water). The optimum dose for effective fall armyworm control is 60% D. stramonium concentration. The study recommends the use of D. stramonium as an insecticide at lower dosages of 30% for the control of fall armyworm as it showed efficacy

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