Investigation the insecticidal effects of Populus alba L. and Populus nigra L. the acetone, alcoholic, hexane and watery plant extracts on flour moth larvae Ephestia kuhnielia (Zel.) (Lep., Pyralidae)

One of the most important pests in the warehouses is the flour moth Ephestia kuhniella (Zel.) (Lep.، Pyralidae). Regarding the high degree of damage of stored product pests and dangerous effects of the chemical control، using plant extracts and their components are some of the best approaches to control these pests. Therefore an investigation was carried out to find the insecticidal effects of Populus alba (Salicaceae) and Populus nigra (Salicaceae) extracted in acetone، hexane،alcohol and water on the flour moth larva. The plants were identified in the Center of Agricultural Research in Hamedan province and their extracts were produced in the solvents. At 100% concentration، the watery extract of P. alba had the highest insecticidal effect with the mean of 54. 66 percent. After that the watery extract of P. nigra and acetone extract of P. alba had the highest effect with means of 31. 48 and 28. 23 percent، respectively. Also hexane extract of P. alba and P. nigra at 100% concentration، water and acetone extract of P. alba had repellent effect on the last instar larvae. These findings reveal that only the watery extract of poplar has insecticidal effect. This shows its potential to be used as an effective insecticide and repellent material.