The larvicidal efficacy of aqueous extracts of Striga hermonthica (Delile) Benth and Mitracarpus scaber (Zucc.) on Culex quinquefasciatus larvae

Abstract

In the face of increasing morbidity and mortality, coupled with unavailability of effective vaccines, the fight against malaria continues through the search of effective control remedies. In line with this search, the effects of the aqueous extracts (0.1 – 2.0%) of the whole plant of Striga hermonthica and Mitracarpus scaber, against the larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito were investigated using the WHO bioassay method. The larvicidal efficacy of the extract was dose-dependent with extract of highest concentration showing highest efficacy, which is given in percentage (%) concentration, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.5%, 1.0% and 2.0%; the higher the concentration of the extracts, the more effective. The results indicated that S. hermonthica and M. scaber contain larvicidal properties that could be developed and used as natural larvicidal, for mosquito control.

Keywords: Striga hermonthica, Mitracarpus scaber, mosquito larvae, aqueous extracts, Culex quinquefasciatus

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology, Vol. 32 [1] March 2011, pp.105-108