Abstract:
This study aims to evaluate the insecticidal effect of aqueous and methanolic extracts of
Cleome arabica, a plant from southern Algeria (Metlili region), on Tribolium castaneum, a pest
of stored food products. The extracts, obtained by maceration using distilled water and
methanol, were tested through direct contact and ingestion. The results showed a higher
extraction yield with methanol, but the aqueous extract proved to be more effective against T.
castaneum, especially via contact. Mortality depended on the concentration, the mode of
application, and the duration of exposure. At a high concentration (60 mg/mL), the aqueous
extract induced significant mortality (>60%) after several days. These findings highlight the
potential of Cleome arabica as a natural source of bioactive compounds, offering a promising
alternative for the biological control of insects harmful to stored products.
