Leaf-cutting ants are among the major pest insects of planted forests in Brazil, causing economic damage since their implantation until their harvest. Because of environmental issues and forest certification requirements alternative methods are being developed to control the genus Atta. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the bioactivity of Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) and chinaberry (Melia azedarach L.) against soldiers of Atta laevigatta Smith. To this end, extracts from leaves were obtained at different concentrations by the following processes: decoction, infusion, maceration, alcohol and essential oil extraction. E. uniflora essential oil at 1.25, 2.5 and 5% concentrations presented significant insecticide activity on A. laevigata compared to other forms of extraction. M. azedarach alcohol extract at 10% also showed insecticidal potential. These extracts can be tested in field practice.
leaf-cutting ant; surinam cherry; chinaberry