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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Medicinal plant-based strategies for the management of Rhyzopertha Dominica: A review
Authors
Anuja Vaijanath Kamble, Dr. Arvind B Chavhan
Abstract
Rhyzopertha Dominica
(Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae), known as the smaller grain borer, is a
significantly destructive main pest of stored cereals globally, causing
considerable quantitative and qualitative post-harvest losses. Extended
dependence on synthetic insecticides and fumigants, especially phosphine, has
resulted in extensive resistance, food safety issues relating to residues,
environmental pollution, and escalating regulatory constraints. The constraints
have heightened interest in plant-based alternatives, particularly medicinal
plant extracts, as sustainable solutions for the protection of stored grains.
This review critically synthesizes validated and peer-reviewed studies on the
effectiveness of medicinal plant extracts against R. Dominica, focusing
on flora variety, phytochemical components, extraction techniques, and
empirically confirmed bioefficacy metrics. Research indicates that extracts and
essential oils from medicinal plants, including Azadirachta indica, Ocimum
sanctum, Acorus calamus, Curcuma longa, Eucalyptus globulus, and Piper
nigrum, cause substantial adult mortality, repellency, antifeedant effects,
growth disruption, and inhibition of progeny emergence. The present review
further examines the underlying mechanisms of action, the statistical
validation of bioassay results, the economic consequences of infestation, and
the constraints that impede widespread adoption. To facilitate standardization,
formulation improvements, and the integration of botanical pesticides into integrated
pest management programs for stored grain, this analysis identifies critical
knowledge gaps and outlines pertinent research objectives. Plant extracts with
medicinal properties offer promising, environmentally friendly alternatives for
controlling R. Dominica infestations. This could help improve
sustainability in post-harvest pest management.
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Pages:402-410
How to cite this article:
Anuja Vaijanath Kamble, Dr. Arvind B Chavhan "Medicinal plant-based strategies for the management of <i>Rhyzopertha Dominica</i>: A review". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 402-410
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