Effect of leaf and seed extracts of Jatropha curcas linn. on mortality and tunneling of subterranean termites,Odontotermes obesus (Ramb.) (Termitidae: Isoptera)

Leaf and seed extracts of jatropha curcas linn. in various polar and non polar solvents were used against workers and soldiers of subterranean termites,odontotermes obesus (ramb.) to determine the effect on mortality and tunneling behaviour. the xtracted materials were added to soil in 1,5 and 10% concentrations of the final yield. a control was also maintained with solvents alone. the studies showed that all extracts at 1,5 and 10% concentrations had significantly low lt 50 in hours than their respective control treatments. lt50s among various polar and non polar solvents were statistically different (p<0.05). the reduction in tunnel length (mm) was observed in all extracts and was significantly different from their respective controls. results are discussed in relation to possible differences of activities in various extracts towards mortality and tunneling of the termites.