Assessment of Annona muricata (Guyabano) Leaves Extract as an Organic Mosquito Larvicide

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The research project aims to increase the mortality percentage of the mosquito larvae. Similar to most viral illnesses, mosquito-related diseases do not have specific cures but they could be prevented by killing the source of the disease itself. in the Philippines, there is a need for alternative ways to control the threat of mosquitoes.

METHODS

The study made use of Annona muricata (Guyabano) extracts. Based on its phytochemical analysis, its phytoconstituents are almost the same with the variables tested in many previous studies regarding larvicides. The crude extracts were applied in concentrations of 125, 250, 500, 1000 ppm. Each set-up contained 20 Aedes aegypti larvae in a plastic cup with the appropriate solution concentrations. Three replicates were used in each set-up. Larval mortality was recorded every 24 hours after the application of the extract. One-Way ANOVA was used in finding the significant differences in each concentration in suppressing the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

RESULTS

This study aimed to reduce the population of Aedes aegypti through larvicide and, at the same time, create a simple product that will cater to the process. The crude extract of Guyabano has been tested against Aedes aegypti first and second instars larvae. The larvicidal activity of Guyabano was observed at concentrations ranging from 125, 250, 500 and 1000 parts per million (ppm) against the Aedes aegypti larvae. The result of this research showed that all the mosquitoes in each concentration were all dead after 48 hours.

DISCUSSIONS

The Annona muricata (Guyabano) showed promising larvicidal activity against the Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. It can be further developed as a potential product against the Aedes aegypti larvae. According to the phytochemical analysis of Guyabano, it contains carbohydrates, proteins, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and glycosides. These essential phytochemical compounds are found in plants with larvicidal activities. Through this study, with the leaves larvicidal extract against Aedes aegypti, the community will discover various ways of benefitting from making an environmentally safe and cheap larvicide. Through the ability of Guyabano larvicidal extracts in preventing the Aedes aegypti larvae from developing into the adult stage, it will help reduce the number of dengue fever cases in the Philippines as the prevalence of this disease continues to trouble the country through time.