Biorational insecticide blends from melia volkensii for enhanced pest control in horticulture
Innovative biorational insecticide blends derived from Melia volkensii aim to reduce pest infestations in tomatoes, enhancing agricultural competitiveness. This solution utilizes plant-based extracts to manage homopteran and lepidopteran pests effectively and sustainably.
Overview
The proposed solution leverages the insecticidal properties of Melia volkensii, a plant native to arid and semi-arid regions, to create biorational insecticide blends. These blends aim to effectively reduce populations of pests such as fall armyworm, aphids, and cowpea pod borers in tomato cultivation, enhancing the competitiveness of horticultural produce. By combining different plant parts—leaves, pulp, and nuts—this solution offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides.
Technical specifications
- Core components: Extracts from Melia volkensii leaves, pulp, and nuts.
- Target pests: Fall armyworm, sweet potato weevils, aphids, and cowpea pod borers.
- Application methods: The extracts will be prepared and applied to tomato plots using a variety of combinations:
- All three components
- Leaves and pulp
- Leaves and nuts
- Pulp and nuts
- Evaluation metrics: Efficacy will be measured by the reduction of pest populations and improvements in total and marketable yield of tomatoes.
- Analytical procedures: Phytochemical concentrations and shelf life will be assessed using qualitative screening and LC-MS analysis.
Technology readiness level
This research is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that the experimental proof of concept has been demonstrated. Future validation will involve both laboratory and field experiments to further establish efficacy and optimize application strategies.
About University of Nairobi
The University of Nairobi is Kenya’s flagship public research university, with a large student body and comprehensive academic breadth. Located in the capital’s corporate and government hub, it offers partners rapid access to collaborators, field sites, and pilot opportunities across East Africa. Co-located labs and testbeds, integration with a major teaching hospital, and an active incubation ecosystem create clear pathways from discovery to validation and deployment. Research is supported by competitive national programs and international agencies, including major U.S. funders such as NIH and USAID. A dedicated technology transfer office and a commercialization arm deliver IP support, licensing, contract research, and consulting.
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