Insecticidal potential of cashew (<i>Anacardium occidentale</i>L.) for control of the beetle,<i>Callosobruchus subinnotatus</i>(Pic.) (Bruchidae) on bambarra-groundnut (<i>Voandzeia subterranea</i>L.) Verde

Abstract

Abstract The nut and shell of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) were evaluated for insecticidal efficacy at concentrations of 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% per 150 g bambarra groundnut (Voandzeia subterranea L.) Verde seeds against Callosobruchus subinnotatus (Pic.) (Bruchidae). Cashew nut shell was highly toxic to C. subinnotatus and achieved 100% insect mortality within 48 hours at 7.5% and 100% mortality within 72% hours at 2.5 and 5.0% concentrations. Oviposition and progeny development of the insect were severely suppressed while seeds were protected from damage by the bruchid. Seed germination was, however, impaired at all concentrations, suggesting that seed treated with cashew products may be suitable for consumption but not be suitable as planting stock.