EVALUATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS OF LEMON (Citrus limon), LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia), AND PEPPERMINT (Mentha piperita) FOR THE CONTROL OF GERMAN COCKROACH, (Blattella germanica) IN LABORATORY BIOASSAY
Authors
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Adetoro, Fouad Abidemi
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State, Nigeria
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Aweda, Damilola Mariam
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State, Nigeria
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Kemabonta, Kehinde Abike
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State, Nigeria
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Adeniran, James Timileyin
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State, Nigeria
Abstract
The German cockroach, Blattella germanica, is a globally distributedrnhousehold pest of medical importance. Control has traditionally reliedrnon synthetic insecticides, but concerns over environmental safety,rnhuman health, and insecticide resistance have increased interest inrnbotanical alternatives. This study evaluated the insecticidal efficacy ofrnbaking soda combined with sugar and essential oils from Mentharnpiperita (peppermint), Citrus limon (lemon), and Lavandularnangustifolia (lavender) against adult B. germanica under laboratoryrnconditions. Mortality and knockdown effects were recorded over 96rnhours, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 at P < 0.05.rnResults showed that M. piperita oil was the most effective treatment,rnproducing 100% mortality at 5 ml after 72 hours (LC₅₀ = 3.273 ml). L.rnangustifolia and baking soda plus sugar each recorded 60% mortalityrnat 10 ml after 96 hours (LC₅₀ = 14.396 ml and 25.660 ml, respectively).rnKnockdown analysis indicated the fastest action for M. piperita (KT₅₀rn= 37 hours), while L. angustifolia and baking soda plus sugar recordedrn96 hours. Citrus limon showed no mortality. Overall, M. piperitarndemonstrated the highest toxicity, suggesting strong potential for usernin eco-friendly German cockroach management within integrated pestrnmanagement systems.