P. SPANDANA *, M. RAJASRI, T.N.V.K.V. PRASAD AND G.S. PANDURANGA

Department of Entomology, S.V. Agricultural College, ANGRAU, Tirupati-517 502.

ABSTRACT

The present study evaluated the bio efficacy of Azadirachtin (10,000 ppm), silica and nano silica formulations against the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius), a key pest of stored pulses. Among the treatments, Azadirachtin (10,000 ppm) demonstrated the highest efficacy, recording 100% mortality by the 7th day, with the lowest LC₅₀ (0.16%) and LT₅₀ (1.39 days), indicating rapid and potent action. Silica and nano silica exhibited moderate but delayed mortality, requiring higher concentrations and longer exposure. Spinosad, used as a chemical check, also showed significant toxicity. The results suggest that Azadirachtin is a promising eco-friendly alternative for the sustainable management of C. maculatus in storage systems.

KEYWORDS: Callosobruchus maculatus, Azadirachtin, Nano silica, Silica, Spinosad, Stored product pests, Biopesticides.