Methanolic Extracts of Waru Leaves (Hibiscus tiliaceus L.) for Controlling Armyworms (Spodoptera litura F.)

Botanical extracts have been reported as biopesticides, which act as antifeedants,  insect  growth  regulators  and  repellents.  As biopesticides, botanical extracts offer a more sustainable solution to pest control as chemical pesticides have a residual problem and are prone  to  pest  resistance.  The  present  study  was  conducted  to evaluate the efficacy of waru leaves extract to control S. litura larvae in vitro conditions.  The extract was prepared by maceration with methanol as a solvent. Third instar larvae of S. litura were randomly grouped into 6 treatments consisting of 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12% and positive  control  (Lannate).  Each  treatment  consisted  of  3 replications.  Leaf  Dipping  method  was  used  in  the  treatment. Observations were made for up to 4 days. The parameters observed were changes in larval morphology, mortality, LC50 and LT50. Data were analyzed using One Way ANOVA (followed by LSD) and Probit analysis. The results showed that the highest activity of waru leaf extract  was  found  at  a  concentration  of  12%,  which  caused  a mortality of 53% larvae. The LC50 value was at a concentration of 11.72%, and the LT50 value was 3.287. It can be concluded that the leaf extract has the potential to control S. litura larvae.