Effects of a bioactive molecule, Menthol on a stock pest

The present study aimed to evaluate the insecticidal activity of a bioactive molecule, Menthol towards a pest species, Rhyzopertha dominica. The effects were examined on mortality, enzymatic biomarkers, nutritional reserves, digestive enzymes and oxidative stress biomarker. Toxicological tests performed by fumigation and ingestion revealed the insecticidal activity of this molecule with a dose-response relationship. Moreover, Menthol applied by ingestion is more effective compared to fumigation. The repellency test showed the repellency of this treatment towards R. dominica. Moreover, the biochemical study shows that the treatment causes a decrease in protein content and energy reserves. In addition, it disrupts the activity of enzymatic biomarkers (PAL, TGO and TGP) in R. dominica adults. Menthol reduces the specific activity of α-amylase, chitinase, protease and lipase.