2025, Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part B
Impact of essential oils on insect behavior and physiology: A review of recent studies
Author(s): Chinedu Okafor, Amina Musa and Samuel Adekunle
Abstract: The increasing concerns over the environmental and health impacts of synthetic pesticides have spurred increasing interest in alternative pest control methods. Essential oils (EOs), derived from various plant species, are gaining attention for their potential to repel and control insect pests naturally. This study aims to evaluate the effects of essential oils on insect behavior and physiology of key insect species, including Aedes aegypti (yellow fever mosquito), Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly), and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (tick). The repellent, insecticidal, and feeding inhibition activities of selected essential oils, such as Cymbopogon citratus (citronella), Eucalyptus spp., Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), and Mentha piperita (peppermint), were assessed in laboratory-based bioassays. The results demonstrated that citronella oil exhibited the highest repellent and insecticidal efficacy, with significant mortality rates in both Aedes aegypti larvae and Drosophila melanogaster adults. Additionally, citronella and Eucalyptus oils showed substantial feeding inhibition in both insect species. Other essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, also exhibited moderate repellent and insecticidal activities. These findings highlight the potential of essential oils as natural alternatives to chemical insecticides in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. While the study demonstrates promising results, further research is necessary to evaluate the long-term efficacy and field applicability of essential oils in diverse environmental conditions. This study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the use of essential oils in sustainable pest control practices.
Pages: 127-133 | Views: 68 | Downloads: 32
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How to cite this article:
Chinedu Okafor, Amina Musa, Samuel Adekunle. Impact of essential oils on insect behavior and physiology: A review of recent studies. Zool Entomol Lett 2025;5(2):127-133.
