Effects of Melia azedarach extract on demographic and biochemical characteristics of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae.

The cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Aphididae: Hemiptera) a destructive aphid, is native to Europe and is now found in many other parts of the world. Currently, one of the main problems of Iranian cabbage growers is the significant damage caused by this pest. Also, due to the fresh eating of cabbage, it is necessary to use non-chemical methods to control the pests. Our bioassay tests showed that Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) fruit extract showed high toxicity to cabbage aphid. In this study, sublethal effects of M. azedarach extract was investigated on some demographic and biochemical properties of B. brassicae. The results showed that the sublethal concentrations (LC 10 and LC 20) and LC 50 values were 0.68, 1.16, and 3.42 μg/ml, respectively. Compared to the control, sublethal concentrations of insecticide significantly decreased the gross reproductive rate (GRR), net reproductive rate (R 0), intrinsic rate of increase (r m), finite rate of increase (λ), intrinsic rate of birth (b), intrinsic rate of death (d), weekly growth rate (r w), reproductive rate and adult longevity of the pest. Meanwhile, the mean generation time (T) and population doubling time (DT) of this aphid increased significantly. Additionally, sublethal doses of insecticide reduced the energy reserves of the pest such as carbohydrate, protein and lipid content compared to the controls. In addition to modify the pH, this extract also changed the distribution and concentration of sodium and potassium ions in haemolymph. Therefore, sublethal concentrations of M. Azedarach fruit extract can be used in the management program of B. brassicae. [Display omitted] • Sublethal doses of Melia azedarach extract significantly affected B. brassicae 's biological and biochemical parameters. • LC 20 significantly reduced longevity, fecundity, r m , R 0 , λ , r w , and GRR and increased T and DT than LC 10 and control. • LC 20 and LC 10 significantly reduced the energy reserves, Na+, K+, and pH of B. brassicae compared to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]