An Ecofriendly Approach to Control Myiasis using Crude Leaf Extracts of Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae) against Third Instar Larvae of Sarcophaga ruficornis
Singh A, Singh R, Khushi and Kaur G
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.21757828
ABSTRACT
Myiasis, caused by dipteran larvae infesting living tissues, poses significant health and economic challenges in humans and livestock. The present study evaluates the larvicidal efficacy of crude leaf extracts of Ricinus communis L. (Euphorbiaceae) against third instar larvae of Sarcophaga ruficornis under laboratory conditions. Leaf extracts were prepared using suitable solvents and tested at different concentrations to determine their toxicity and growth-inhibitory effects. The treated larvae exhibited dose-dependent mortality, reduced feeding activity, developmental abnormalities, delayed pupation, and decreased adult emergence compared with untreated controls. Phytochemical constituents present in the extracts, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds, are presumed to contribute to the observed bioactivity. The findings demonstrate that R. communis leaf extract possesses potent larvicidal properties and offers an environmentally safe, biodegradable, and sustainable alternative to synthetic insecticides. This ecofriendly botanical approach may serve as an effective strategy for controlling myiasis-causing flies and reducing their associated impacts.
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