Effects of neem and Azadirachtin on aphids and their natural enemies
1994
Lowery, D.T. | Isman, M.B.
Applications of formulated neem seed (expeller) oil (NSO) effectively controlled several species of aphids infesting plants in the laboratory and in the field. Laboratory investigations involving NSO or its most active ingredient, the limonoid azadirachtin (AZA), indicated that feeding deterrency does not contribute significantly to the control of aphid populations. Antifeedant activity to the strawberry aphid, Chaetosiphon fragaefolii (Cockerell), for example, was lost within 24 hours following applications to strawberry in the greenhouse. Control instead results from the inhibition of adult reproduction and from the failure of nymphs to molt. Efficacy is variable, however, depending on the species of aphid, instar, and host plant. Populations of predacious and parasitic insects were not adversely affected by sprays of NSO or neem seed extract (NSE) in the field, but, based on laboratory trials, natural enemies of aphids are moderately susceptible to the insect growth regulating effects of neem. In comparison to synthetic insecticides, neem-based botanicals appear to be relatively benign to beneficial insects and are suitable for inclusion in integrated pest management programs.
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