Evaluation of the Insecticidal Potential of Azadirachta indica and Moringa oleifera Seed Oils Against Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) Under Topical Application

Fruit flies, particularly the invasive Bactrocera dorsalis, cause significant damage and yield losses in fruit crops worldwide. Although synthetic insecticides are commonly used, they raise environmental concerns. This study therefore investigates the biological effects of A. indica and M. oleifera seed oil extracts on B. dorsalis. Contact toxicity of A. indica and M. oleifera seed oil extracts at 2.0%, 4.0%, 6.0%, 8.0%, 10.0% concentrations were tested by topical application of the extracts (1.0 µL) on the dorsum of adult Bactrocera dorsalis (from fruit fly culture) using standard techniques. Treatments were replicated 5 times in a completely randomized design. The topical application of neem and moringa oils caused clear and significant differences (p < 0.05) in mortality between male and female fruit flies. For female flies, the highest mortality was 80% at 72 hours using 6.0% neem seed oil, while the lowest was 10% at 24 hours with 2.0% oil. For male flies, the highest mortality was 70% at 72 hours using 10.0% neem seed oil, and the lowest was 10% at 24 hours with 2.0% oil. Azadirachta indica seed oil extract of 8.0% and 10.0% concentration caused higher mortality in adult Bactrocera dorsalis.