An effective dosage of neem (Azadirachta indica Juss) and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) extracts against adult aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer) and melon flies (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillet)

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficaciousness dosage of aqueous extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica Juss) and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) at different concentrations (40%, 60%, and 80%) against adult melon flies (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillet) and aphids (Myzus persicae Sulzer) in laboratory conditions. The experiments were designed and conducted from April to June 2023 at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania. The study found that as extract concentrations increased, there was a noticeable drop in insect survival. The dosage of 80% at 48 hours and 60% at 72 hours were observed to perform better as few were observed to survive. At the highest dosage of 80% and 60%, extracts from neem and aloe vera both resulted to 100% insect mortality. The results highlight the potential of aloe vera and neem extracts to have a positive effect on insect pest management rather than untreated crops.