Effect of Neem Seed Extractives on Poplar Defoliator Pygaera cupreata Butler (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) in Laboratory

Methanol extractives of neem seed and nine chromatographic fractions (F₁, - F₁₀) were tested against poplar defoliator P. cupreata for their antifeedant activity. Preliminary studies indicate antifeedant activity by Methanol extract, Fraction 2 and Fraction 10. These three active extractives were further tested following method of Nakanishi. Five replications of ten insects each were used for test. The methanol extract and fraction 2 were found significantly effective gustatory phagodeterrent when compared to fraction 10 and controls. These extractives can be used for foliage protection of Populus deltoides against P. cupreata.