Evaluating the acaricidal effect of essential oil nanoemulsion against the cutworm, Spodoptera litura

Abstract

The cutworm, Spodoptera litura is an important pest of cruciferous vegetables and it causes economic impact worldwide. The efficiency of turmeric and star anise essential oil nanoemulsions (nEOs) against the cutworm, including mortality, antifeedant, and growth inhibition effects was investigated. Essential oil nanoemulsions (nEOs) were prepared by mixing the essential oils with surfactants and co-surfactants. The 2nd, stage instar larvae of cutworms were tested by leaf dipping method and were observed after 24 hours. The results showed that the two nEOs, which were turmeric and star anise, performing the mortality, and growth development effect on Spodoptera litura as well as having antifeedant property. Complete mortality rate was shown at 0.35 % concentration of turmeric and star anise nEOs, when 100% antifeedant effect was found at 0.20% concentrations of nEOs, and 100% growth inhibition was observed at 0.30% concentrations of nEOs. It could be concluded that the nEOs from star anise had antifeedant and insecticide properties.