Background: Cockroaches, particularly Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana, are major urban pests that pose significant public health risks and economic burdens. Traditional chemical control methods are increasingly challenged by the development of resistance and environmental concerns. 
 
Methods: This study investigates the potential of Stichopus horrens, a sea cucumber species, as a biocontrol agent against these cockroaches. The bioactive compounds of S. horrens were extracted and tested for toxicity and repellency. 
 
Result: Toxicity assays demonstrated a concentration-dependent increase in mortality, with 93.3% and 90% mortality observed for B. germanica and P. americana, respectively, at 1% concentration after 72 hours. However, repellency was moderate, with a maximum of 56.6% for B. germanica and 53.3% for P. americana at the same concentration. The findings suggest that S. horrens possesses strong insecticidal properties, making it a promising candidate for integrated pest management (IPM). Its moderate repellency indicates that its primary utility may lie in its insecticidal effects rather than as a repellent. Future research should focus on isolating the specific bioactive compounds and exploring their potential synergistic effects with other control methods to enhance efficacy and sustainability in pest management strategies.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Sea Cucumber (Stichopus horrens) as a Biocontrol Agent against Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana

Background: Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are vectors for severe diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya and yellow fever, presenting a substantial global health challenge. Traditional control measures, primarily chemical insecticides, face limitations due to resistance development and environmental concerns. This study investigates the larvicidal potential of Stichopus horrens extract against Ae. aegypti larvae as an alternative, eco-friendly control strategy. 
 
Methods: S. horrens were collected and extracts were prepared using methanol. Larvicidal activity was assessed using various concentrations (0.1% to 5.0%) of the extract, with mortality rates recorded after 24 hours. 
 
Result: Results demonstrated a concentration-dependent increase in larval mortality, reaching 98.8% at the highest concentration. The LC50 and LC90 values were 0.79% and 5.84%, respectively, indicating significant efficacy. The steep dose-response curve suggests potent activity even at low concentrations. These findings align with previous studies highlighting marine-derived compounds&rsquo; potential in mosquito control. The effectiveness of S. horrens extract, combined with its low toxicity to non-target organisms, underscores its promise as part of integrated pest management strategies. Further research is needed to isolate the bioactive compounds and evaluate their field efficacy. This study supports the development of sustainable mosquito control methods to combat resistance and environmental impact.

Larvicidal Effect of&nbsp; Sea Cucumber (Stichopus horrens) against Aedes aegypti Mosquito Larvae (Diptera: Culicidae)

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Evaluating the Efficacy of Sea Cucumber (Stichopus horrens) as a Biocontrol Agent against Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana

Larvicidal Effect of Sea Cucumber (Stichopus horrens) against Aedes aegypti Mosquito Larvae (Diptera: Culicidae)