Evaluation of insecticidal properties of Momordicacharantia in reducing oviposition and seed damaged by Callosobruchus maculates (Fab.) walp.

Studies were carried out in the laboratory of Agricultural Technology Department of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria to determine the efficacy of leaf powder of Momordica charantia against the storage pests Callosobruchusmaculatuson stored cowpea. The experiment was laid out in completely Randomised Design (CRD) and replicated three times. Leaf powder of M. charantia was added as admixtures to 20 g of grains at the following rates: 0.5g, 1.0g, 1.5g and 2,0g to assess contact toxicity, damage assessment, progeny production. The results obtained shows that the plant material was toxic to the insect. The leaf powder of M. charantia applied at 2.0g greatly (P&0.05) caused reduction in the number of eggs laid, percentage eggs hatched and significantly inhibited adult emergence and seed damaged by the beetlescompared to other concentrations. The result revealed that M. charantia powder can be used in guarding against storage pest infestation in storing cowpea seed.