Abstract:
The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of tobacco extract on the control of the mealworm beetle [Alphitobius diaperinus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)] in aviaries. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, using four contact times (21/2, 5, 71/2, and 10 min) and four tobacco extract concentrations (0, 25, 50, and 75% dilution). The contact time and the dilution of the extract were independent; however, contact time had greater effect on insect mortality. The tobacco extract has insecticide potential in the management of aviaries, but toxicity tests should be performed on the birds.
Index terms:
Alphitobius diaperinus; Nicotiana tabacum; aviculture; natural insecticide.
