Control of Culex Mosquito Larvae by Extracts of Mentha Spicata L. (Mint) and Citrus Limon L. (Lemon)

Abstract

Aim: Mosquitoes represent the major arthropod vectors of human disease worldwide by transmitting various diseases. This study evaluated the control of Culex mosquito larvae by extracts of Mentha Spicata L. (Mint) and Citrus Limon L. (Lemon).

Methodology: The extracts of mint (M. spicata) and lemon (C. limon) were were prepared and the larvicidal activity of mint, lemon, and mix of mint and lemon was assessed in 4 different dilutions (2%, 4%, 6% and 8%) along with control group in glasses. The extracts were exposed to larvae for three days and data were noted after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. The number of dead larvae was counted and noted. The experiment was performed in triplicates.

Results: The highest larval mortality was found with mint extract (1.91 mg/dL LC₅₀ value), followed by lemon peel extract (2.32 mg/dL LC₅₀ value) and mix extract (4.29 mg/dL LC₅₀ value) respectively. In terms of % mortality mint showed high mortality rate of 94% followed by lemon 88% and mix extract 70%. The % mortality was directly proportional to the concentration of the extract.

Conclusion: Mint and Lemon extracts can be considered as a powerful arsenal for the control of mosquito population if used separately.