Insecticidal formulation based on Xylopia aethiopica essential oil and kaolinite clay for maize protection

Insecticidal formulations based on the essential oil of Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae) and kaolinite-clay (particles size less than 50 μm) are efficient in protecting stored grains. Ingestion-contact insecticide tests have been conducted using the maize weevil Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.) (Curculionidae). Residual action of terpenic constituents adsorbed on clay was assessed. Bioassays indicated that S. zeamais adult mortality increased with the quantity of active ingredient. The formulation based on essential oil and clay produced mortality rates ranging from 22% at 2.5% (w/w) to 100% at 10% (w/w). The lethal concentration producing a 50% mortality rate (LC50) was 4.35% (w/w). Efficacy also depended on storage conditions and duration of the formulation, decreasing from 91 to 37% for formulation stored in closed boxes and from 91 to 17% for formulation stored in open boxes, after 1 and 15 days respectively.