Abstract
This research explores plant-derived bio-pesticides as eco-friendly solutions for controlling the Prodenia litura (Fabricius) insect pest. It assesses the effectiveness and practical applications of these biopesticides, aiming to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional pest control methods. Various plant-based compounds are tested for their ability to repel or deter Prodenia litura (Fabricius), offering new insights into integrated pest management strategies. The widespread use of synthetic pesticides poses a serious threat to environmental contamination. Prodenia litura (Fabricius), commonly known as the tobacco caterpillar, is a highly damaging polyphagous insect that attacks an impressive range of 65 host plant species, as well as other insect pests. One major challenge is the insects' development of defense mechanisms against these toxins, primarily through phenol oxidase chemicals in their bodies that function similarly to hemocytes, providing strong resistance against poisons and invaders. Any substance capable of disrupting this defense mechanism would significantly impact the insect's fitness. Considering the critical importance of plant safety for ecosystem health, the preference is shifting towards naturally derived pesticides and insecticides. This study evaluates the insecticidal effectiveness of extracts from fourteen plant species against the tobacco caterpillar, Prodenia litura (Fabricius), using petroleum ether extraction at different concentrations. The results emphasize the potential of plant-derived bio-pesticides to reduce insect damage while promoting environmental and human health.