Evaluation of Raphanus sativus (Radish) Leaf Extract and Its Insecticidal Potential against Drosophila melanogaster (Fruit Fly)

Abstract

Insects pose significant ecological threats and act as vectors for pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, insects damage crops, leading to substantial economic losses. Traditionally, chemical insecticides have been employed to manage insect populations; however, their detrimental effects on the environment and human health have raised concerns. The study evaluated the potential of Raphanus sativus as an alternative natural insecticide. Contact toxicity and mortality assays were used to evaluate the insecticidal efficacy of R. sativus leaf extract in varying concentrations against D. melanogaster larvae and adults. The insecticidal activity was assessed by measuring percentage mortality at three different time intervals (30, 45, and 60 minutes). Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Scheffe's post-hoc tests, were conducted to identify significant differences between treatments. The findings demonstrated that R. sativus leaf extract exhibited insecticidal activity against D. melanogaster larvae after 45 and 60 minutes of exposure. The extract showed promising efficacy against adult D. melanogaster, with insecticidal activity comparable to the chemical insecticide malathion at all exposure times (30, 45, and 60 minutes). These results suggest that R. sativus leaf extract holds potential as an effective and environmentally safer alternative to chemical insecticides in pest management.