Eco-Friendly Management of Tetranychus urticae Using Plant Extracts: Impacts on Reproduction, Enzymatic Activity, and Genetic Integrity

Said, Zeinab M. Elbasheir A.; Sabry, Hend M.; Elsaid, Amira M.; Algazeery, Ahmed

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2025.375687.2789

Eco-Friendly Management of Tetranychus urticae Using Plant Extracts: Impacts on Reproduction, Enzymatic Activity, and Genetic Integrity

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Zoology Department, Faculty of Sciences, Zagazig University, Egypt

² Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.

³ Zoology Department, Faculty of Sciences, Zagazig University, Egypt.

10.21608/ejvs.2025.375687.2789

Abstract

This study evaluates the effects of LC₅₀ concentrations of four plant extracts, namely Artemisia monosperma, Retama raetam, Capparis spinosa, and Artemisia judaica on the reproductive parameters, longevity, deterrent activity, and genetic damage of Tetranychus urticae. The plant extracts were tested for their impact on pre-oviposition, oviposition, and post-oviposition periods, longevity, and fecundity. Results showed that A. monosperma and A. judaica significantly reduced the oviposition period compared to the control, with A. monosperma also leading to the shortest lifespan and lowest fecundity. R. raetam and C. spinosa demonstrated less impact on reproductive parameters but still affected longevity and fecundity. Regarding deterrent activity, A. monosperma exhibited the highest deterrence, followed by A. judaica, indicating their strong potential for pest management. Enzymatic analysis revealed a significant increase in α-esterase activity in A. monosperma-treated mites, while C. spinosa significantly elevated β-esterase levels. Comet assay results demonstrated that A. monosperma caused the highest levels of genetic damage, with A. judaica showing moderate effects. These findings suggest that A. monosperma is the most effective plant extract for controlling T. urticae, with significant impacts on its reproduction, longevity, deterrence, and genetic integrity. The study highlights the potential of using these plant extracts in integrated pest management strategies targeting this economically important mite.

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