Assessing the Effectiveness of African Basil (Ocimum gratissimum) in Controlling Glow Worms (Lampyridae Notiluca) in Malakwang (Hibiscus spp).
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Date
2025-05-19
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of African basil (Ocimum gratissimum) in controlling glow worms (Lampyridae notiluca) in Malakwang (Hibiscus spp) cultivation in Uganda. Glow worms, among other pests, cause significant yield losses. Given current concerns over chemical pesticide resistance and environmental risks, this study assessed the potential of botanical extracts as a pest management option. African basil bioactive properties, especially the eugenol that demonstrated pesticidal and repellent potential, were evaluated. Field experiment was conducted to assess the efficacy and optimal concentration of African basil extract in the control of glow worm infestation in Malakwang. Glow worm incidence and severity of infestation on Malakwang was evaluated. The research findings indicated that African basil extract significantly reduced pest activity at p-value <0.0001 and significance level 0.001. The extract concentration that resulted in the highest reduction in glow worm incidence was 50% concentration. Repeated trials to validate these results are required in order to promote this sustainable option in the management of glow worm infestation on Malakwang.
Key words
Effectiveness, African basil extract, Glow worm, Infestation, Malakwang, sustainable insect pest management.
Description
Undergraduate