EFFECTS OF CYASTERONE ON GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF DIAMONDBACK MOTH, PLUTELLA XYLOSTELLA (L.)*

Abstract Cyasterone is the main phytoecdysteroid component from cultured plants of Ajuga nipponensis, and common in other Ajuga species. Results showed that when treated with 50 mg/L cyasterone, the egg hatching of diamondback moth was retarded. The total percentage of eggs hatched in treatment was 94.7%, significantly less than that in control, which was 100%. Low toxicity and good antifeeding activity to the 3rd instar larvae were exhibited, which are dependent upon concentration. The growth and development of diamondback moth were affected by cyasterone. It was found that, at concentrations higher than 50 mg/L cyasterone, the larval growth and egg production were inhibited; while promoted at lower concentrations. This dual role of cyasterone might be attributed to its hormonal activity and antifeeding activity, which resulted in poor nutrition. The pupation and eclosion were hindered by treatment of larvae. This insect species was more susceptible to cyasterone than 20‐hydroxyecdysone.