Larvicidal and Repellent Activity of Ethanolic Extracts of Datura innoxia and Datura stramonium Against White Grub Larvae

Abstract

White grub larvae are destructive soil pests causing severe damage to sugarcane and other root crops. Overreliance on synthetic insecticides has resulted in environmental contamination, pest resistance, and health concerns. The present study evaluates the bio-insecticidal efficacy of ethanolic extracts of Datura innoxia (White Datura) and Datura stramonium (Black Datura) against white grub larvae. Plant leaves were shade-dried, oven-dried at 60°C for 48 hours, powdered, and extracted using 70% ethanol. The extracts were filtered, centrifuged, and tested using a direct-spray bioassay on white grub larvae. Mortality and behavioural changes were recorded at 24 and 48 hours. UV–Visible spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds. Preliminary results indicated strong repellent and larvicidal effects, with 100% mortality observed within 24 hours in treated groups, while control larvae remained healthy. Black Datura extract showed comparatively higher efficacy. The study suggests that Datura extracts can serve as eco-friendly botanical pesticides, though further standardization and field trials are required.