DefinePK

Abstract

Background:   The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of magnesium oxide nanoparticles on desert locust adults and thus recommend its use in integrated pest management programs. Methods:  This study investigated the impact of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO) on adult  Schistocerca gregaria . The insects were treated with Nano and Lambda-cyhalothrin 4% at three different concentrations, in addition to a control group with a concentration of 0.00, 0.150, 0.300, and 0.600 mL/L. Results:  The study revealed a positive correlation between the concentration of nanomaterial mixed with the insecticide and the fatality rate. The study revealed that the half-lethal concentration (LC50) value is 0.050. Furthermore, the results indicated a significant disparity between the impact of nanoparticles and the pesticide, with respective p-values of 0.008 and 0.15 at concentrations of 0.150 and 0.600. However, both substances exhibited an equal effect at a concentration of 0.300. The impact of MgO nanoparticles and the pesticide on insect fertility was evident across all three concentrations of the nanomaterial mixed with the pesticide. The observed fertility rates were 35.4%, 35.4%, and 78.2%, respectively. In contrast, the control group consisting solely of the pesticide showed no difference in fertility, with a rate of 0%. Conclusion:  When magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles and Lambda-cyhalothrin 4% insecticide are mixed, they have a big effect on adult desert locusts ( Schistocerca gregaria ). This is due to the high toxicity of the nanoparticles and their ability to penetrate the insect's cuticle layer, as well as their effect on the respiratory system and the gastrointestinal system of insects. It was shown that increasing the concentration of nanoparticles mixed with this pesticide results in higher mortality rates for both male and female individuals of the species. Additionally, it causes a decrease in the fertility rate, specifically for female insects, when exposed to the pesticide. Keywords:  Schistocerca gregaria ; Magnesium oxide nanoparticles; Insect control; Acrididae