Piper guineense is effective against Spodoptera frugiperda

Study revealed that the ethanolic extract of the fruit of Guinean piper causes high mortality in larvae of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), affects the reproductive behavior of adults and acts as a repellent for females. The research was conducted by scientists at the University of Amsterdam.

The extract of Guinean piper caused 100% mortality in larvae of S. frugiperda with topical application of a 30% (v/v) solution after two days of exposure. Lower concentrations also caused significant mortality compared to the control. Furthermore, the extract reduced the pupation rate and the weight of surviving pupae.

In the electrophysiological test (EAG), adult pests showed significant responses to the extract's compounds, with variations between sexes and populations. Females and males showed different reactions to the extract concentrations, indicating differentiated olfactory perception.

The researchers also assessed the extract's impact on mating and oviposition. In females from the Nigerian population, exposure to the extract significantly reduced the number of eggs laid. The Kenyan population, however, did not demonstrate the same sensitivity.

In the wind tunnel test, adult females preferred to land near the control odor source (ethanol) rather than the plant extract. The repellent effect was stronger when the insect was closer to the odor source.

Further information at doi.org/10.3390/insects16090908