The toxic effect of Abrus precatorius seeds powder against the
wheat weevil Sitophilus granarius adults over a period of 14 days was
studied. Data confirmed that, at all concentrations, the mortality percentage
increased as the exposure period was prolonged and also as the applied
concentration was increased. Seven days post-treatment the LC50 value was
0.12% (w/w). The correspondent value at 14 days was significantly
decreased being 0.05% (w/w). Hence, A. precatorius seeds powder was
toxic against S. granarius. The powder proved, also, that it had a repellent
effect against the tested insect. The phytochemical investigation of A.
precatorius seeds illustrated that it was rich in tannins, saponins and
phenols. The LC50 and two higher concentrations of A. precatorius powder
seeds were evaluated, also, against thirty-six adult males of Rattus rattus
over a period of 30 days. Rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups 9 rats/
group. Rats of the first group were fed on grains mixed with LC50 (0.12%)
of powder. The second group fed on grains mixed with 5% powder. The
third group was on grains mixed with 10% powder. While the fourth group
was fed on untreated grains as control. Three replicates were used in each
group. Blood samples were obtained for haematological and biochemical
analysis. Specimens of the liver, kidney, spleen, testis, and stomach were,
also, taken for histopathological studies. The whole results showed that the
powder of A. precatorius seeds has potential toxicity as shown by the
effects it caused on the serum chemistry as well as on the changes noted on
the studied organs. |
