Cytogenotoxic and antimicrobial effects of Nezara viridula (L.) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) alcoholic extracts

Abstract

Due to their multifunctionality and the numerous fields of applicability, insects are extensively studied today for both their biomedical and nutritional properties. In the current study the cytogenotoxic and antimicrobial potential of ethanol and methanol extracts of Nezara viridula (Linnaeus 1758) was evaluated using the Allium test, respectively the disk diffusion test. A mitostimulatory effect of the extracts of N. viridula and a variation of the cytogenotoxic activity of the extracts in a gender-dependent manner was noticed. As well, significant variations of the mitotic index were determined through the type of solvent used and the concentration of the extracts. High frequency chromosomal aberrations and mitotic abnormalities were recorded with high concentration ethanolic extracts. Following the testing of four standard bacterial strains and two standard yeast strains, a slightly antimicrobial activity was observed when compared to control. The use of invasive species in such studies opens up new perspectives on the potential of organisms considered harmful.