Insecticidal activity of essential oils from five Moroccan plants on three insect pests of stored cereals

Abstract

Essential oils from five Morrocan plants belonging to different botanical families (Asteraceae, Myrtaceae and Cupressaseae), were prepared by hydrodistillation. These essential oils, which have a long tradition in adjuvant therapy, were tested for insecticidal activity by the method of microcomputer-atmosphere against three major pests of stored products: Rhyzopertha dominica (F), Sitophilus oryzae (L) and Tribolium castaneum (herbst). Results showed that the essential oil of Eucalyptus camaldulensis possessed significant insecticidal properties against the pests studied.