Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) is a highly destructive polyphagous pest that poses a serious threat to global agriculture through extensive crop damage and increasing resistance to conventional pesticides. In search of sustainable pest management alternatives, this study investigates the antifeedant potential and behavioral effects of Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) leaf extracts against S. litura larvae. Sequential extractions were performed using solvents of varying polarity, and the resulting extracts were subjected to laboratory bioassays to evaluate feeding deterrence, larval behavior, oviposition preference, and developmental responses. Among the tested fractions, the ethyl acetate extract exhibited the highest antifeedant activity, achieving a deterrent index of 72.5% at 2.0% concentration. Significant behavioral alterations were observed, including delayed feeding initiation, reduced consumption, strong avoidance of treated surfaces, and oviposition deterrence by gravid females. Additionally, sublethal effects such as growth retardation, molting delay, and moderate larval mortality were recorded. These findings suggest that N. nucifera contains bioactive phytochemicals capable of interfering with insect feeding and development, making it a promising candidate for eco-friendly pest management. Further phytochemical analysis and field validation are recommended to support its integration into integrated pest management (IPM) programs.

Spodoptera litura, Nelumbo nucifera, oviposition, antifeedants

In conclusion, the study highlights the significant antifeedant and behavioral deterrent effects of N. nucifera extracts on S. litura, indicating its potential role in sustainable pest management. The incorporation of such botanicals into IPM strategies could reduce reliance on conventional pesticides and mitigate their associated environmental and health impacts.

Natesan Krishnamurthy, Kannan Revathi, Rajamanickam Chandrasekaran and Gowtham Subramani (2025). From Pond to Pest Control: Antifeedant and Behavior-Modifying Properties of Nelumbo nucifera Against S. litura. Biological Forum, 17(10): 10-15.