PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND SYNERGISTIC LARVICIDAL ACTION OF ARGEMONE MEXICANA AGAINST THIRD INSTAR LARVAE OF AEDES AEGYPTI (DIPTERA: CULICIDAE)

Abstract

Aedes aegypti is the principal dengue vector. A threat to public health exists globally due to the dengue vector's development of resistance as a result of the widespread use of chemical insecticides. Tropical and subtropical countries are especially susceptible to dengue vector infection. The focus of research has been on plant-based phytochemicals that are employed as larvicides against mosquitoes. Bioinsecticides made from plants are biodegradable, and safe for the environment. In the present investigation, Argemone mexicana leaf and seed extracts were successfully tested against the third instar of Aedes aegypti, in accordance with the guidelines of WHO. The aqueous extract of the leaf with LC50 and LC90 values of 133.25 and 311.68 ppm, ethanolic extract leaf with LC50 and LC90 values of 102.32 and 239.88 ppm, and petroleum ether extracts of the leaf with LC50 and LC90 values of 123.02 and 281 ppm. Similarly, aqueous, ethanolic, and petroleum ether seed extracts with LC50 values of 154.88, 120.22, and 104.71 ppm and LC90 values of 393.07, 281.83, and 239.88 ppm, respectively, in 24 h post-exposure. All the extracts were shown significant (P<0.05) larvicidal potential. Preliminary phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of different phytoconstituents. Our findings suggest that the leaves and seeds have larvicidal potential, this plant's metabolites may be a cost-effective and eco-friendly source that keeps the mosquito population below the threshold level