Stink bugs, particularly the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys), are
major agricultural pests that damage crops like eggplants (Solanum melongena) and
tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum). Current control methods rely on chemical
repellents, raising environmental and health concerns and risks of insecticide
resistance. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring natural
alternatives, such as plant-based repellents, are gaining interest due to their safety
and biodegradability. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and lemon (Citrus limon), known for
their aromatic and medicinal properties, contain compounds with insect-repellent
activity. This study explores using ginger and lemon as natural repellents against stink
bugs in eggplant and tomato crops, aiming to provide a sustainable alternative to
chemical repellents.
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS of Ginger and Lemon. ( that are also present in
chemical repellents)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale):
Zingerone and Shogaol: enhances its efficacy by disrupting insect behavior
and feeding patterns.
Gingerol: a primary bioactive ingredient, has demonstrated insecticidal and
repellent effects.
Lemon (Citrus limon):
Limonene: an active compound that provide effective insect-repellent
properties due to their potent odor and potential toxic effects on insect nervous
systems.
Citral: the citrusy scent from these compunds significantly repels stink bugs by
impairing their ability to locate food sources or breeding grounds.
Compounds that are present in ginger and lemon that are also used in
chemical repellents:
Independent Variable:
The independent variables are the treatments applied, which are:
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Lemon (Citrus limon)
Dependent Variable:
This is the variable that is measured or observed to assess the effect of the independent variables. In
this study, the dependent variables are:
The efficacy of the repellent, which can be quantified by the level of Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)
infestation or damage in Eggplant (Solanum melongena) and Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum).
METHODOLOGY:
TESTING METHOD:
After the extraction of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Lemon (Citrus limon), there
will be a set of groups.
1. Control Group: No ginger and lemon solution applied to the plants.
2. Ginger and lemon Solution Group: Plants are sprayed with the solution.
Spray the combined solution evenly on the plants, (Eggplant and Tomato), focusing on
the leaves and fruits where stink bugs are likely to feed or lay eggs. 15-20 adult stink
bugs are involved. Place the plants inside enclosures to prevent external pests from
interfering. Monitor the both plants; without the solution and with the solution, daily
for stink bug activity. Assess plant damage and calculate the average of stink bugs per
plant over the observation period.