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Influence of azadirachtin on insect nutrition and reproduction

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Proceedings: Animal Sciences

Abstract

Neem extracts and pure azadirachtin influence the behaviour and physiology of large number of insects. These compounds affect the sensory receptors, thereby inhibit food intake. This anti-feedant property is exploited by using neem extracts and azadirachtin for plant protection. The gut motility and movement of food in the digestive tube are regulated by azadirachtin.Holotrichia serrata, the beetle of the ‘white grub’ feeds on neem leaves and no ill-effect of azadirachtin is reported.

Azadirachtin and neem extracts regulate the reproductive functions of insects through their endocrine system. Morphogenesis, ovarian development, fecundity, egg viability and moulting are adversely affected by azadirachtin. Radioimmunoassays show that the ecdysteroid level falls drastically on azadirachtin treatment. Juvenile hormone synthesis also is inhibited inLocusta on administration of azadirachtin. InOncopeltus fasciatus, high doses of azadirachtin inhibit adult development resulting in permanent larvae which show oocyte differentiation with yolk incorporation equivalent to day 4 of adult development.

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  1. Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, 695 581, Trivandrum, India

    G K Karnavar

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Karnavar, G.K. Influence of azadirachtin on insect nutrition and reproduction. Proc. Indian Acad. Sci. (Anim. Sci.) 96, 341–347 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03180019

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