International Journal of Entomology Research

Authors
Morey Rashmi

Abstract
Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is one of the most important pest of potato. It is known to cause heavy loss to the potato tubers and the plant as well. Repeated and undue use of conventional chemical insecticides have developed resistance in these insects. Moreover, the chemicals are known to cause ecological imbalance and leave back the residue on the food commodity. This has led to development of alternative strategies to control the pest. Research in this area is progressively appealing consideration as the kingdom of plants is a vast source of active ingredients with insecticidal properties. Many plant products have been explored for their pest control potential. In the present study the essential oils of Cinnamomum verum, Cupressus sempervirens, Cymbopogon nardus, Emblica Officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis and Simmondsia chinensis were assessed to find their potential as insecticide specially with reference to their effect on the biochemical parameters. The results revealed that the plant oils have significant effect on the biochemical parameters of the pest and can find a place in the control strategy of this major pest of potato.