Efficacy of extracts of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray as protectant against maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais [Motsch.]) and cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus F. on stored grains

This study sought to determine the efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia (African Sunflower) as pesticides against maize weevil Sitophilus zeamais and bean beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. The research was conducted ascertain toxicity potency T. on insects’ mortality, repellency, adult emergence, seed damage weight loss for treatment stored products their minimum effective dosage application. collected from premises Kwara State University, Malete were air-dried, grinded dissolved in 50 g 600 ml four different extracts (Ethanol, Methanol, n-Hexane aqueous). S. C. maculatus reared laboratory at 60-75% relative humidity 25-35 oC. After whole extraction, ten unsexed infested 10 grains replicated three times each application with levels. mortality other parameters counted post-treatment. mean results studied significantly (P< 0.05). N-hexane most toxic while Methanol extract Thus, all potent, they reduced oviposition, increased improved repellence, inhibited reproduction, grain storage compared untreated control. Subjected qualitative phytochemical screening, active compounds discovered be present include tannin, flavonoid, saponin, phenol, terpenoid, glucosides alkaloid. proffers use diversifolia, a readily available, safe ecofriendly botanical farmers short long-term products.