The toxic impact of the extract of the Dieffenbachia picta leaves on the ratio of death in the termites' workers Microcerotermes diversus (silvestri) [Isoptera: Termitidae]

Effects of the extract obtained from the Dieffinbachia picta leaves were examined on the termite workers of Microcerotermes diversus using four treatments (T) including 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by spraying. The results showed mortality rate in the termite workers at different periods of time. T100% recorded the highest mortality rates (8%, 8.67% and 9%) after 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively, while the minimum mortality in the insect workers was recorded at T25% as 1.7%, 2.3% and 3.7% after 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively. According to results of the present study, there is a possible advantage of the toxic properties of D. picta leaves as an alternative and effective plant pesticides for combating the termite of M. diversus.

The toxic impact of the extract of the Dieffenbachia picta leaves on the ratio of death in the termites' workers Microcerotermes diversus (silvestri) [Isoptera: Termitidae] Keywords:

Microcerotermes , Isoptera , plant toxicity , Calcium oxalate , Dieffenbachia picta