Evaluating the efficacy of sea cucumber (Stichopus horrens) as a biocontrol agent against Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana

Cockroaches, particularly Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana, are major urban pests that pose significant public health risks and economic burdens. Traditional chemical control methods are increasingly challenged by the development of resistance and environmental concerns.

This study investigates the potential of Stichopus horrens, a sea cucumber species, as a biocontrol agent against these cockroaches. The bioactive compounds of S. horrens were extracted and tested for toxicity and repellency.

Toxicity assays demonstrated a concentration-dependent increase in mortality, with 93.3% and 90% mortality observed for B. germanica and P. americana, respectively, at 1% concentration after 72 hours. However, repellency was moderate, with a maximum of 56.6% for B. germanica and 53.3% for P. americana at the same concentration. The findings suggest that S. horrens possesses strong insecticidal properties, making it a promising candidate for integrated pest management (IPM). Its moderate repellency indicates that its primary utility may lie in its insecticidal effects rather than as a repellent. Future research should focus on isolating the specific bioactive compounds and exploring their potential synergistic effects with other control methods to enhance efficacy and sustainability in pest management strategies.