Soursop leaf extract (Annona muricata L) as a biochemical pesticide against fruit flies (Bactrocera sp)

Abstract

Background: The citrus cultivation industry is commonly operated by the government, private sector, or individual owners from small, medium, to large scales. The fruit flies (Bactrocera sp) insect was reported to attack citrus crops in almost every region in Indonesia. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of soursop leaf extract (Annona muricata L) as a plant-derived insecticide against fruit flies. Methods: This study used true experimental with Posttest Only Control Design to analyse the difference in the average mortality of fruit flies for 24 hours. Results: The data generated through the Kruskal Wallis test showed that at a concentration of five per cent and 10% the effect of the mortality in fruit flies equals p > 0.939. However, at a concentration of 15%, the number decreased to p < 0.001. This finding showed that the compound has evolved its function to antifeedant only or as a secondary metabolite that does not result in immediate death but rather gives discomfort to insects. Conclusion: The use of an antifeedant compound as a biopesticide can inhibit fruit flies’ attack on citrus crops.