The effect of extracts (botanicals) from three selected plant species on the armoured ground cricket : Acanthoplus, Brancsk (Orthoptera : Tettigoniidae, hetrodinae)

Damage to sorghum and pearl millet by the armoured ground cricket, Acanthoplus speiseri Brancsk, is particularly high on small-scale farms. The control methods currently in use are based on the use of synthetic insecticides.The study was conducted to assess the effects of plant extracts from leaves and seeds of Azederacta indica A. Juss, Melia azedaracha L. and Tephrosia vogelii Hook f The laborator}' study was conducted at the University of Zambia during the period of February to July 1995. A randomised design was used and water extracts of the botanicals were applied in form of baits and topical applications. Effects of plant extracts on mortality and insect development were observed. Baits from seed extracts of A .indica and M. azedarach had the highest mortalit>' on both third instars and aduUs (p<0.5). Extracts of M. azedarach delayed the development oi" armoured ground cricket.