EFFICACY OF Ficus congensis Engl. LEAF POWDER AGAINST PESTS OF STORED Tamaridus indica L. FRUITS IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

An investigation was undertaken with the aim of determining the efficacy of Ficus congensis
Engl. leaf powder against pests on stored Tamaridus indica L. fruits in Gombe State, Nigeria The
experiment was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Botany, Gombe State
University. The method used was by obtaining the plant powders and thoroughly mixing with
20g of Tamarind fruits in 250ML plastic containers at, 0.2, 0.4 0.6 and 0.8g concentrations
according standard procedures. The findings revealed that the LC50, LC90 and LC99 had been
found as 0.62g, 1.1g and 1.2g respectively which varied according to Concentrations of and
duration of exposure, The treatments had significant results compared to the controls at P≤0.05
level of significance using the Student Newman-Keuls (SNK) test for variables.
This study concluded that the high efficacy of organic pesticides Ficus congensis in the control
of insect pest (Sitophilus linearis) was 85% mortality for four weeks. The study therefore
recommended that Ficus congensis should be used at high Concentrations of 1.2 grams per 20
grams of Tamarind fruits to cause 99% mortality. Also the powder should be applied on fresh
dried Tamarind fruits for efficient results as it has no toxic effect. The leaf powder is therefore
recommended for Tamarind storage for at least four weeks.