Essential oil microencapsulated fumigant: an innovative technology against Zabrotes subfasciatus (Boheman, 1833) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae)
摘要
The fumigating effect of essential oils on the control of stored grain pests has been widely studied. However, bioactive compounds are often characterized by low molecular weight, high volatility, and susceptibility to light and heat degradation; therefore, the development of advanced technologies, such as microencapsulation, is essential to enhance their stability and applicability in agriculture. The objective of this research was to develop and characterize a microencapsulated fumigant based on citronella essential oil (MFCEO), Cymbopogon nardus L., for the management of Zabrotes subfasciatus (Boheman, 1833) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), one of the main storage pests of beans. The resulting microparticles were a white powder with 100–1300 μm, 3.29% moisture content, a bimodal distribution, and smooth circular particles. The fumigant activity showed LC50 0.46 g L−1 and 6.49 μL L−1 of air and LC99 of 7.6 g L−1 and 12.94 μL L−1 of air for MFCEO and essential oil, respectively. We report the first microencapsulated fumigant from citronella essential oil (MFCEO) for Z. subfasciatus control. MFCEO improved stability and fumigant activity, representing a practical bio-based alternative for stored grain protection.