The effects of aqueous extracts of Azadirachta indica almonds and of Sapindus saponaria fruits, applied on disks of kale leaves (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) at concentrations of 0.0117% and 1.0342% (w/v), respectively, were studied on larval feeding behavior of Ascia monuste orseis. Data on leaves attractiveness and consumption at first and third larval instar were taken during 24 hours (25 ± 2ºC temperature, 60 ± 10% RH and 12 photophase). There was not difference in relation to attractiveness of caterpillars at first instar in tests with and without choice as well as caterpillar at third instar in tests without possibility of choice. In the test with possibility of choice for caterpillars of third instar had lesser attractiveness of the caterpillars for disks leaf treated with S. saponaria, differing to the control. During 24 hours of evaluations 58.3% of caterpillars were attracted to the control treatment which, did not differed to the 39.3% of A. indica treated disks. However, the treatments with S. saponaria, showed a 2.4% of the caterpillars attracted by observation, which was a significant difference. In addition, S. saponaria reduced the consumption of leaves by caterpillars in all the carried tests. When the caterpillars did not have feeding choice of leaves without extracts, consumption was performed with no difference among treated leaves, in all tested concentrations, however they consumed a lesser amount. The extracts tested in this experiment demonstrated effect on the feeding of the caterpillars of A. monuste orseis, possibly with deterrents properties and/or feeding suppressors.
Insecta; Pieridae; insecticidal plant; neem; Brassica oleracea var. acephala
