Bio-efficacy of Indigenous Weed-Derived Botanical Insecticides Against Fall Armyworm (FAW)  Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)  (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Exploring Weed-Based Alternatives for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Rodney Malenab; Amelyn Franco; Anamarie Franco; Jehna Marie Cordero; GERALD DUZA; Ricardo Casauay

Bio-efficacy of Indigenous Weed-Derived Botanical Insecticides Against Fall Armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Exploring Weed-Based Alternatives for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Authors

Mr. Rodney Malenab Cagayan State University- Piat Campus
Ms. Amelyn Franco Cagayan State University- Piat Campus
Ms. Anamarie Franco Cagayan State University- Piat Campus
Prof. Jehna Marie Cordero Cagayan State University- Piat Campus
Dr. Gerald Duza Cagayan State University-Piat Campus https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6897-1036
Dr. Prof. Ricardo Casauay Cagayan State University- Piat Campus

Keywords:

Botanical insecticide, Mortality, LC50, LT50, Spodoptera frugiperda, Phytochemical screening

Abstract

The present study investigates the insecticidal properties and chemical composition of three native Philippine weeds, Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata, and Hyptis suaveolens, against Spodoptera frugiperda, a critical pest in maize cultivation. Through controlled lab bioassays, the effects of botanical extracts on larval mortality, pupation, and adult emergence were assessed. Phytochemical tests confirmed the presence of key bioactive substances, including flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and terpenoids, while saponins were notably absent in H. suaveolens. Using probit analysis, both LC₅₀ and LT₅₀ values were calculated. Among treatments, L. camara exhibited the most potent insecticidal effects, outperforming other botanicals in mortality and developmental disruption metrics. While cypermethrin remained most effective overall, findings suggest L. camara could be a practical, eco-friendly alternative. Further research should explore field applications and advanced formulations for sustainable pest control strategies.

Bio-efficacy of Indigenous Weed-Derived Botanical Insecticides Against Fall Armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Exploring Weed-Based Alternatives for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)