Toxicity, tunneling and feeding behavior of the termite, Coptotermes vastator, in sand treated with oil of the physic nut, Jatropha curcas

Issue Date

12-2009

Abstract

Oil of the physic nut, Jatropha curcas L. (Malpighiales: Euphorbiaceae), was evaluated in the laboratory for its barrier and repellent activity against the Philippine milk termite Coptotermes vastator Light (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). The study showed that J. curcas oil had anti-feeding effect, induced reduction in tunneling activity and increased mortality in C. vastator. Behavior of termites exposed to sand treated with J. curcas oil indicated that it is toxic or repellent to C. vastator. Toxicity and repellent thresholds, were higher than those reported for other naturally occurring compounds tested against the Formosan subterranean termite.

Source or Periodical Title

Journal of Insect Science

Volume

9

Issue

64

Page

1-8

Document Type

Article

Physical Description

illustrations, tables

Language

English

Subject

Curcin, Phorbol esters, Repellency, Sand barrier

Identifier

doi:10.1673/031.009.6401.

Digital Copy

yes

Link to Full Text

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