Phytoecdysterid compounds of Silene aucheriana and its nutritional effects on Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

According to the adverse effects of pesticides and their residues to the environment, and non-target organisms, it is necessary to utilize safe compounds with specific mode of action. Recently, studies on plant extracts especially phytoecdysteroids have been increased because of their performance in pest control. The purpose of this study was to identify phytoecdysterid compounds in a native plant Silene aucheriana Boiss and to investigate their efficacy on larval and pupal weight of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.). After concentrating of the crude extract, using HPLC-MS, three phytoecdysteroidal compounds, 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E), Polypoin B (Pol B) and Integristerone A (Int A) were identified. Then leaves were exposed to concentrations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 40%. Third instar larvae were fed with treated leaves. Findings indicated that larval and pupal weight was decreased significantly as concentration increased. Therefore, it is necessary to establish comprehensive studies on phytoecdysteroidal extract of S. aucheriana for practical use in insect pest control of agricultural crops in the integrated pest management (IPM) program.