Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. leaf extracts: Chemical insights and toxicity assessment against the lesser mealworm Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Abstract

Alphitobius diaperinus, a pervasive pest in poultry facilities and stored products, poses significant challenges due to its role as a mechanical carrier of pathogens and its resilience to conventional insecticides. In search of eco-friendly alternatives, this study investigated the chemical composition and insecticidal potential of saline (SE) and methanolic (ME) extracts from Artocarpus heterophyllus leaves. Chromatographic analyses (TLC and HPLC-DAD) revealed the presence of cinnamic acid derivatives and flavonoids in both extracts, while terpenes and steroids were detected exclusively in ME. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry revealed the presence of eleven volatile compounds in each extract, with sesquiterpenes such as β-caryophyllene, α-humulene, and caryophyllene oxide dominating the ME profile, whereas SE predominantly contained long-chain alkanes. Bioassays against A. diaperinus adults showed that ME significantly reduced survival rates (LC₅₀ = 36.99 ± 1.57 mg/mL), while SE was ineffective at comparable concentrations. The insecticidal activity of ME may be linked to the presence of sesquiterpenes, steroids, and flavonoids. These findings position the methanolic extract of Ar. heterophyllus as a promising candidate for the development of plant-based insecticides, potentially contributing to more sustainable and targeted pest control strategies in poultry farming.