Vol.3, No.4, 281-294 (2013) Open Journal of Animal Sciences
http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/ojas.2013.34042
Effects of plant latex based anti-termite formulations
on Indian white termite Odontotermes obesus
(Isoptera: Odontotermitidae) in sub-tropical high
infestation areas
Ravi Kant Upadhyay
D. D. U. Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, India;
Received 24 July 2013; revised 24 August 2013; accepted 15 September 2013
Copyright © 2013 Ravi Kant Upadhyay. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License,
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
ABSTRACT
In the present investigation various bioassays
were conducted to evaluate the anti-termite ef-
ficacy of plant latex based formulations to con-
trol population of Indian white termite in sub-
tropical soil. Results reveal that crude latex, its
fractions and combinatorial fractions have
shown very high toxicity against O. obesus. The
LD50 values for different latex fractions of 24 h
were in a range of 5.0 - 17.613 μg/mg while com-
bined mixtures of Calotropis procera have
shown synergistic activity against termites and
caused comparably high mortality with LD50
1.987 - 6.016 μg/mg. The mortality rate was
found dose and time dependent as it was found
to be increased with an increase in dose and ex-
posure period. In olfactometry tests, C. procera
latex solvent fractions have shown significant
repellency at a very low dose 0.010 - 0.320
μg/mg. Interestingly, solvent fractions have sig-
nificantly repelled large numbers of worker ter-
mites due to volatile action of active compo-
nents of latex and different additives. ED50 val-
ues obtained in crude latex were 0.121 μg/mg
body weights while combinatorial formulations
have shown ED50 in between 0.015 - 0.036 μg/mg.
Statistical analysis of repelled and un-repelled
termites gave a low Chi-square value (X2 value =
0.890) which is an indicator of independence of
repellent action in randomly selected termite
groups. In field experiments pre-soaked cotton
threads impregnated with Calotropis procera
crude latex were tagged around tree trunks of
Tectona grandis provided a wider protection
against O. obesus. By employing these pre-coa-
ted threads, termite infestation and tunneling
activity were significantly decreased (p < 0.05
and 0.01). When germinating crop plants were
sprayed with various plant latex formulations,
these have caused very high protective efficacy
against termite infestation. It has significantly
reduced crop losses up to 6.45%. There was a
significant difference in infestation obtained in
control and treatment groups (P < 0.05 and 0.01)
which shows that Calotropis procera possesses
enough anti-termite potential against Indian
white termite, O. obesus population. If used
these, formulations may also provide wide a
range of control against other kinds of pests
including house hold, medical and veterinary.
However, Calotropis procera latex based for-
mulations can be recommended for effective
control of termites in high infestation areas by
applying spray, or in form of poison baits or as
fumigant in pure form.
Keywords: Calotropis pro cera; Odontotermes
obesus; Plant Latex; Toxic Effects
1. INTRODUCTION
Termites are highly destructive polyphagous insect
pests of crop plants, which damage green foliages, seed-
lings, wood, fibers, and other household cellulose based
materials. Most of the termite species attack crop plants,
significantly reduce yield and heavily infest post harvest
stored products. Most of field termites live in huge
mounds, invade green vegetation and dry biomass. Both
worker and soldier termites harm non-seasoned commer-
cial wood and its formed materials. Whether it is a rural
area or an urban domestic site, termite menace is every-

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282
where. In forests, gardens and even in houses termites
make tunnels, adjoin them with green biomass, vegeta-
tion, or crop fields. However, for controlling termite
population and its menace in the field, various synthetic
pesticides such as chlorodane [1], cypermethrin [2], hy-
droquinone and indoxcarb [3] have been used. Due to
their longer residual persistence in the environment,
these were proved highly toxic to non-target organisms
in the ecosystem. Hence, new alternatives of synthetic
pesticides were discovered in form of natural pesticides
which display low toxicity to humans and the environ-
ment, having low costs among other advantages [4].
Plant latex is a complex mixture of proteins, alkaloids,
starch, sugars, oils, tannins, resins, and gums [5]. It is a
natural plant polymer secreted by highly specialized cells
known as laticifers [6]. It shows deleterious effects like
toxic, antifeedant, growth and reproductive inhibitory in
number of insect species [7]. Latex bearing plant species
from Annonaceae, Solanaceae Asteraceae, Cladophoraceae,
Labiatae, Meliaceae, Oocystaceae and Rutaceae possess
diverse phytochemicals having very high insecticidal
potential against crop [8-10] and medical pests, i.e. Culex
quinquefasciatus [11], Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis [12]
and Musca domestica [13]. Latex of C. procera also af-
fects gonotrophic cycles of Aedes aegypti [14] and pre-
vents egg hatching and larval development [15]. Hence,
after observing its toxic nature to a number of insects
including termites [16,17], present topic was selected for
investigation. However, latex based termite formulations
were prepared by using different additives which acted as
synergists with the natural latex obtained from Calotro-
pis procera. These newly designed and prepared latex
based formulations were used in various bioassays in
laboratory and in field experiments to control termite
infestation caused by Indian white termite, Odontotermes
obesus Rambur (Isoptera: Odontotermitidae). For this
purpose, wood seasoning, spray, tag binding, soil treat-
ments were done to evaluate the insecticidal and repel-
lent potential of above formulations.
2. MATERIALS AND METHODS
2.1. Insect Collection
Termite O. obesus were collected from infested logs
found at the University of Gorakhpur U. P. India and
near by forest area of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Ter-
mites removed from plant biomass and logs were main-
tained in glass jars (“height-24”, “diameter 10”) in com-
plete dark conditions at 28˚C ± 2˚C, 75 ± 5 RH. Termites
were fed on green leaves.
2.2. Collection of Plant Latex
Plant latex was collected from Calotropis procera
(Madar) located in the botanical garden of D. D. U.
Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, India and it peripheral
areas. Plant species was identified by applying standard
taxonomic key specially by observing inflorescence and
family formula with the help of a taxonomic expert. La-
tex was obtained from various plant parts such as stem,
flower buds and unripe fruits in separate aseptic glass
vessels. From stem, latex was collected by tapping me-
thod at a fixed time interval [18]. For this purpose, sharp
incisions were be made on tree trunk to open the latex
vessels situated in the bark or fruits were used to cut
open from its top then slightly squeezed to collect un-
conjugated in sterile plastic vessels. It was stored at
−20˚C until used, but mostly fresh latex samples were
lyophilized and used for extraction/fractionation pro-
poses.
2.3. Extraction/Fractionation of Plant Latex
Collected plant latex samples were lyophilized and
powdered in vacuum in cold. Lyophilized latex was ex-
tracted with different solvents by changing the polarity.
Active fractions from the latex were portioned between
different solvents on the basis of their polarity. For better
fractionation, solvent extraction was performed by using
polar and non-polar solvents. Mostly portioning was
done between hexane and aqueous methanol, petroleum
ether and chloroform. Further, a portion of dried latex
was extracted with distilled water, 1.5% acetic acid,
1.5% Sodium bicarbonate and 1.5% sulphuric acid and
diethyl ether to separate various fractions by following
the method of Steven, McCay and Paul Mahlberg [19].
Extracts were allowed to evaporate in a SpeedVac vac-
uum concentrators to get residue. It was dried and
weighed and re-dissolved in known volume of different
solvents. Dissolved residues were stored in cold at 4˚C
for experimental purpose.
2.4. Toxicity Bioassay
For evaluation of dose response relationship of differ-
ent latex extracts, different doses (w/v), i.e. 0.5, 1.0, 2.0,
4.0, 8.0, 16 and 32 μg of different extracts were loaded
on separate Whatmann paper strips (1 × 1 cm2) and air
dried to remove the solvent. These pre-coated solvent
free strips were placed in the center of separate Petri
dishes (42 mm diameter) as tests and uncoated as control.
Twenty worker termites were released in the Petri dish to
observe the mortality. After setting the experiment, green
leaves were provided as food for both tests and control
insects and containers were covered with black paper
sheets. Mortality was recorded on the basis of dead and
living termites and observations were made in triplicate
for each extract and pure compounds up to 24 h. Insects
were treated as dead when become immobile and have
shown no further activity to the external stimuli. The

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294 283
LD50 after 24 h of exposure to each was calculated by
using Probit analysis tested using the method of Finney
[20].
2.5. Repellency Bioassay
Repellent responses were observed in a glass Y-tube
olfactometer by using serial concentrations 0.001, 0.002,
0.004, 0.008, 0.016 and 0.032 μg of different crude la-
tex/fractions/formulations loaded on separate Whatmann
paper strips (1 × 1 cm2) and air dried to remove the sol-
vent. These pre-coated solvent free strips were placed in
right arm of Y-tube olfactometer (16 mm diameter × 90
cm length) as tests while similar strips uncoated were
placed in left arm as control. Twenty worker termites
were released inside the opposite tri-arm to observe the
repellent activity. After introduction of termites tube
openings were closed by Teflon tape and number of ter-
mites oriented to towards uncoated strips or non-scented
area were counted as repelled. Individuals that did not
enter at least one of the arms were scored as unrespon-
sive. Tests were conducted for 18 h at 27˚C temperature.
Same tests were conducted after reversing the arms to
test directional bias. A Chi2 test was used to compare the
number of termites responding to the olfaction generated
by C. procera active fractions. Number of repelled ter-
mites in presence of each latex extract were counted after
30 min of treatment with five different concentrations
(1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0 and 16.0 μg/gm) of each latex extract
were used. The ED50 values that repelled 50% of termite
population were calculated.
3. FIELD EXPERIMENTS
3.1. Thread Binding Assay
For control of termite infestation in garden plants pre-
soaked cotton threads were tagged around the tree trunks
at a height of 5 - 6 feet above the ground. For this pur-
pose threads were soaked in Calotropis procera aqueous
extract for 24 h and dried in shade. Early age saplings of
Tectona grandis (5-year-old) trees in 8 different rows
each having 24 plants were selected and tagged with the
cotton threads and sprayed regularly at 15 days interval
with same extract. In controls, the uncoated threads were
tagged at similar height without coating any active frac-
tion on threads. Separate rows were chosen for spray,
thread binding and both.
3.2. Wood Seasoning
For evaluation of termiticidal action of plant latexes
against termites six solid wood sticks of Tectona grandis
each having 3 feet length were seasoned with three dif-
ferent concentrations of plant latex based formulations as
CPLT 1, CPLT 2 and CPLT 3 separately . Anti-termite
mixture or tincture was prepared by mixing different
ingredients (60 gm Calotropis procera latex dried, 15 ml
coconut oil, 15 ml terpene oil, 15 ml glycerol and 15 gm
elemental sulphur in 15 liter water). In CPLT 2 and CPLT
3 mixtures Calotropis procera latex powder was mixed
45 gm and 30 gm while the rest of the ingredients were
the same. CPLT I2 was made by addition of 0.2% iodine
to the 60 gm Calotropis procera latex. For seasoning
wood sticks were immersed in the anti-termite mixtures
separately for 24 hours, then, dried for 12 h and planted
inside soil in separate pits of 2.75 feet in depth at a dis-
tance of 3 feet. Similarly six control wood sticks were
also used which were unseasoned with out any treatment.
After 30 days interval each one of control and test wood
stick was dug out for evaluation of anti-termite activity.
% weight loss and % infestation, exposure period and
concentration of ingredients were considered for deter-
mination of anti-termite activity in wood sticks in garden
soil. Experiments were run up to 180 days and wood
sticks were marked with colored marker for correspond-
ing control. Five different controls also were set for com-
parison, each one of them are CPLT oil, malathion,
fipronil, thiomethoxam, and no treatment (negative con-
trol).
3.3. Seed Germination, Plant Viability and
Yield Indices
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) or Bengal gram or Kala
Chana or Desi chana in Hindi, is a grown as a cash crop
in Western India is a source of soil organic matter which
also support edaphic biodiversity due to biological ni-
trogen made available by the nitrogen fixtures. Crop at-
tracts large number of termites, which infest it from early
stage to green seedling stage. The certified seeds were
purchased from U. P. Seed Corporation Limited, and
agronomic planting method was used by direct sowing
sandy loam in texture, normal in reaction (pH 7.8) and
EC of soil is 0.21 dsm−1. The soil tested low in organic
carbon (0.39 percent), organic matter (0.68 percent) and
available nitrogen (178 kg ha−1) and medium in available
phosphorus (21.4 kg ha−1) and high in potassium (350 kg
ha−1). The experiment was replicated thrice in split plot
design of 3.5 × 3.5 m area for each test and control.
Treatments include seed treatments by dip method over-
night, spray and soil baits, prepared by adding the tested
latex substances with bran, floor and cellulose paper.
Round pills of 3.4 mm in diameter were made and posted
underneath the soil by mulching and surfacing of the soil.
Recommended cultural practices except for treatments
under study were followed throughout the crop growth
period.
4. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Standard deviations chi-square, t-significance, correla-

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284
tion, and ANOVA were calculated from the means of two
replicate using three equal sub samples from each repli-
cate by using method of Sokal and Rohfl [21]. In the
experiments analysis of variance (ANOVA) was done
whenever two means were obtained at a multiple test
range and p < 0.05 probability level. The LD50 after 24
hrs of exposure were calculated by applying POLO pro-
gram [22].
5. RESULTS
Toxic and repellent responses of various latex frac-
tions, crude latex and its various combinatorial formula-
tions were applied against Indian white termite O. obesus
in the crop field and laboratory. For evaluation of toxicity
and latex generated effects, insects were treated with
increasing dose of various latex fractions, crude latex and
its various combinatorial formulations separately. The
mortality rate was found dose and time dependent as it
was found to be increase with an increase in dose and
exposure period. The LD50 values for different latex frac-
tions of 24 h are given in Table 1. Solvent extracts have
shown LD50 in a range of 5.0 - 17.613 μg/mg while com-
bined mixtures of Calotropis procera have shown syner-
gistic activity against termites and caused comparably
high mortality with LD50 1.987 - 6.016 μg/mg (Table 1).
Among all the fractions, methanolic fraction has
shown highest toxicity in comparison to other fractions.
It has shown very high anti-termite potential against O.
obesus with an LD50 value of 5.060 μg/mg (Table 1).
Among the combinatorial formulations CPLT + oil (1:1)
have shown significantly much higher toxicity to the O.
obesus as the LD 50 obtained was the lowest one, i.e.
1.987 μg/mg (Table 1). It is highly noticeable that Ca-
lotropis procera fractions in termites remain active for
longer duration and cause high lethality. The index of to-
xicity estimation indicates that the mean value was with
in the limit at all probabilities (90%, 95% and 99%) as it
is less than 0.05 values of t-ratio. Besides this, regression
was also found significant. The steep slope values indi-
cate that even small increase in the dose cause high mor-
tality. Values of the heterogeneity less than 1.0 denotes
that in the replicate test of random sample, the dose re-
sponse time would fall with in 95% confidence limit and
thus the model fits the data adequately (Table 1).
In olfactometry tests, C. procera latex solvent frac-
tions have shown significant repellency at a very low
dose 0.010 - 0.320 μg/mg. Interestingly, solvent fractions
have repelled mean number of insects 12.125 while
11.75 mean numbers of insects were repelled by crude
latex in olfactometer. ED50 values obtained in crude latex
was 0.121 μg/mg body weights while combinatorial for-
mulations has shown ED50 in between 0.015 - 0.036
μg/mg (Table 2). Statistical analysis of repelled and un-
repelled termites gave a low Chi-square value (X2 value
= 0.890) which is an indicator of independence of repel-
lent action in selected termite groups. It shows actual
ranges and expected ranges were quite independent and
concentration and anti-termite formulations presented to
termites were key factors in repellency in tests and com-
parison to control. In other experiments in which pre
soaked cotton threads impregnated with Calotropis pro-
cera, crude latex were tagged around tree trunks of Tec-
tona grandis gave similar results and justify the toxicity
and repellent action of latex based formulations in ran-
Table 1. LD50 values obtained in different fractions of C. procera latex and its various combinatorial formulations against Indian
white termite, Odontotermes obesus.
Extracts hr
LD50 (μg/gm)
(p < 0.05) LCL UCL t-ratio Slope Heterogeneity Chi-test
Crude latex 24 7.578 6.282 9.059 5.560 2.318 0.633 3.797
Acetone Fr. 24 17.613 15.644 19.647 6.101 4.140 0.130 0.649
Petroleum ether Fr. 24 5.534 4.493 6.677 6.718 2.103 0.629 4.404
Methanol Fr 24 5.060 4.229 5.889 5.865 3.226 0.572 2.289
Chloroform Fr 24 5.328 4.253 6.507 6.077 2.621 1.123 6.742
Water Fr. 24 7.354 6.231 8.925 5.825 2.637 0.712 3.562
CPLT 1 24 3.217 2.742 3.751 6.142 3.162 0.760 3.798
CPLT 2 24 4.158 3.412 4.996 6.237 2.552 1.059 7.417
CPLT 3 24 6.016 5.046 7.017 6.016 2.918 0.841 4.207
CPLT + Oil 24 1.987 1.709 2.278 6.800 2.912 0.666 4.660
CPLT-I2 24 2.512 2.082 2.941 5.694 3.115 0.599 2.398
aLD 50 values represents lethal dose that cause 50% mortality in the test insects. bLCL and UCL mean lower confidence limit and upper confidence limit re-
spectively. ct-ratio, slope-value and heterogeneity were significant at all probability levels (90%, 95% & 99%). t-ratio, difference in degree of freedom at 0.5,
0.05 and 0.005 levels; slope-value shows the average between LD50 and LD80, from which LD50 value is calculated; and heterogeneity value, shows the effect of
active fraction on both susceptible and tolerant insects among all of the treated insects.

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294 285
Table 2. Percent repellency obtained in different fractions of C. procera latex and its various combinatorial formulations against In-
dian white termite, Odontotermes obesus.
Latex/extracts Concentration in μg Mean no. of Insects repelled Expected no. of insect repelled χ2 Value ED50
Crude latex 0.080 - 0.320 11.75 10 2.871 0.121
Acetone fraction 0.010 - 0.200 11.75 10 4.382 0.082
Petroleum ether 0.010 - 0.080 11.50 10 1.211 0.041
Methanol 0.010 - 0.080 12.125 10 6.317 0.052
Chloroform 0.010 - 0.120 11.50 10 6.865 0.105
Water 0.080 - 0.320 11.375 0 4.50 0.153
CPLT 1 0.010 - 0.080 14.00 10 2.455 0.019
CPLT 2 0.010 - 0.080 13.66 10 0.997 0.026
CPLT 3 0.010 - 0.080 11.16 10 7.421 0.036
CPLT + Oil 0.005 - 0.080 11.50 10 2.682 0.015
CPLT + I2 0.050 - 0.080 10.33 10 5.304 0.031
a. Not significant as the calculated values of χ2 were less than the table values at all probability levels (90%, 95% and 99%). b. Significant at all probability
levels (90%, 95% and 99%); The data responses lines would fall with in 95% confidence limits and thus the model fits the data adequately. UCL-LCL *Upper
confidence limit and lower confidence limit.
Table 3. Termite management after employment of tag binding, spray, gully filling and latex washing on infested garden plants.
Number of termites
Mean ± SE
% infestation
Mean ± SE
% inhibition in tunneling activity
Mean ± SE
Treatment
Before Treatment After TreatmentBefore TreatmentAfter TreatmentBefore Treatment After Treatment
Spray 25.77 ± 0.531
(100)
16.33 ± 0.881
(36.63)
80.83 ± 0.945
(100)
28.16 ± 0.60
(48.32)
50.42 ± 0.782
(100)
23.83 ± 0.60
(46.89)
Tag binding 19.66 ± 0.889
(100)
10.33 ± 0.66
(52.54)
71.66 ± 0.666
(100)
16.5 ± 0.428
(23.04)
71.33 ± 0.494
(100)
10.5 ± 0.428
(14.72)
Spray and Tag 21.16 ± 0.557
(100)
5.66 ± 0.66
(26.74)
77.0 ± 0.577
(100)
12.16 ± 0.600
(15.79)
33.57 ± 0.719
(100)
8.16 ± 0.477
(24.30)
Gully filling and latex washing 23.33 ± 0.714
(100)
2.16 ± 0.131
(9.258)
64.5 ± 0.846
(100)
8.5 ± 0.428
(13.17)
26.0 ± 0.577
(100)
7.66 ± 0.33
(29.46)
Observations were made at every 15-day time interval, *Significant at p < 0.01 levels.
domly selected termites. By employing these pre-coated
threads, termite infestation and tunneling activity were
significantly decreased (p < 0.05 and 0.01) (Table 3).
However F-values obtained in these experiments have
shown successful random control of termites in the
groups. [F0.05 = 4.10, F0.01 = 7.56], F is significant for X
value while for Y values it is non-significant and Fxy =
5.38. It was also tried to adjust the values by computa-
tion for adjustment of SS for Y that shows the termite
killing was significant [df = 9, t0.05 = 2.26, t0.01 = 3.25]
(Table 3). There was observed a significant decrease in
mud plastering after regular spray on the infested trees as
it was found and no further termite infestation was ob-
served even after 6 months of experiment.
Besides this, calotropis procera latex based combina-
torial formulations were also used in wood seasoning for
the protection of wood from termite infestation. C. pro-
cera fractions have shown good termiticidal action as
almost no infestation was observed in test wood sticks up
to 6 months. The percent weight loss obtained was also
minimized up to 3.94% after six month, while in un-
treated sticks 57.82% weight was lost (Table 4). In case
of CPLT + oil treatment weight loss was minimized up to
8.11% but it showed almost no termite infestation at a
concentration of 1:1 of Calotropis procera latex and
neem oil. Infestation was found to be decreased with
increasing concentration of C. procera. Statistical analy-
sis of infested and un-infested data have shown signifi-
cant correlation between tests and control, as the values
of correlation were found positive (0.8765) in the weight
loss and infestation in comparison to tests. The p value <
0.0001 considered extremely significant that signifies
that test wood sticks seasoned in latex formulations faced
significantly very low termite infestation after long ex-
perimental duration.
In field experiments germinating crop plants were
sprayed with various latex formulations of C. procera.
These have shown very high protective efficacy against
termite infestation. However, treatments done with CPLT
1 have shown better protection till the crop was matured
approximately 165 - 170 days. It has significantly re-
duces crop losses up to 5.73%, while in case of CPLT 2 it

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286
Table 4. Effect of plant latex based formulation on weight loss and infestation in disowned wood sticks planted in garden soil.
Treatment 0 Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 Month
583.3 ± 4.721* 519.3 ± 2.54
(10.97)*
431.6 ± 4.75*
(26.00)*
358.3 ± 6.38
(38.57)*
299 ± 3.399
(48.73)
259.3 ± 7.79
(55.54)*
246.00 ± 6.76
(57.82)*
Control (−)
0.00 (0.00) 97.6 ± 1.25**
(100)
107.6 ± 1.08
(109.63)*
126 ± 1.906
(129.1)*
152 ± 2.546
(155.73)*
169.6 ± 2.38
(173.15)*
197 ± 2.08
(201.84)*
649.3 ± 8.64 638.3 ± 11.39
(1.69)*
611.33 ± 3.03
(5.84)*
598.06 ± 2.91
(7.90)*
580 ± 4.56
(10.67)*
563.33 ± 9.02
(13.24)*
542.00 ± 13.25
(16.52)*
Control (+)
0.00 (0.00) 8.50 ± 0.866
(100)
14.25 ± 1.37
(167.64)
16.75 ± 1.25
(197.1)
19.5 ± 1.30
(229.41)
21.6 ± 1.495
(254.11)
23.75 ± 1.21
(279.41)
680.33 ± 8.27 671.66 ± 3.899
(1.32)*
634.0 ± 8.49
(6.77)*
613 ± 3.03
(9.86)*
607.33 ± 5.24
(10.73)*
602.66 ± 5.624
(11.41)*
594 ± 4.75
(12.68)*
CPLT 1
0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 8.25 ± 2.481
(5.42)*
13.5 ± 0.645
(7.95)*
16.13 ± 0.65
(8.18)*
733.33 ± 8.25 727 ± 10.87
(0.863)*
690 ± 4.189
(5.90)*
678.33 ± 4.45
(7.54)*
670 ± 3.29
(8.59)*
663 ± 5.62
(9.54)*
694 ± 3.85
(5.36)*
CPLT 2
0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 5.25 ± 0.93
(3.45)
6.75 ± 0.71
(3.97)
9.71 ± 0.625
(4.92)
753.33 ± 4.838 748.33 ± 5.811
(0.707)*
737.33 ± 5.62
(2.12)*
731 ± 4.18
(2.96)*
729 ± 5.43
(3.187)*
725 ± 2.82
(3.76)*
723.60 ± 5.70
(3.94)*
CPLT 3
0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00)
670 ± 8.77 656. ± 10.23
(2.08)*
646.33 ± 2.68
(3.53)*
634 ± 3.741
(5.37)*
624.33 ± 3.76
(6.81)*
618 ± 2.15
(7.76)*
615.66 ± 7.81
(8.11)*
CPLT + oil
0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00) 0.00 (0.00)
*Values in bracket depict per cent weight loss represented in grams; +Values in brackets depict per cent weight loss and per cent termite infestation; % Wt loss is
mean of weight loss obtained in six wood sticks planted in soil after seasoning. It is represented in grams.
Table 5. Effect of pant latex based formulation on protection of seed germination and plant loss due to termite infestation.
15 days 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 Month
CPLT 1 136.21 ± 1.15*
000 (0.00)
135.6 ± 0.881
(0.440)
134.8 ± 0.948
(1.035)
134.6 ± 0.66
(1.18)
132.96 ± 1.52
(2.37)
129.5 ± 1.08
(4.91)
128.4 ± 1.19
(5.73)
CPLT 2 138.6 ± 1.20
0.00 (0.00)
135.0 ± 1.15
(2.59)**
133.6 ± 1.85
(3.607)**
132.6 ± 1.20
(4.329)**
131.0 ± 1.15
(5.48)
130.3 ± 0.881
(5.98)
129.66 ± 0.881
(6.45)
CPLT 3 142.6 ± 0.881
000 (0.00)*
141 ± 0.577
(1.12)
138.56 ± 4.33**
(2.83)
136.4 ± 1.01
(4.347)
134.33 ± 0.881
(5.799)
132.6 ± 1.20
(7.01)
131.17 ± 0.460
(8.015)
CPLT 3 136.21 ± 1.15
000 (0.00)
135.6 ± 0.881
(0.440)
134.8 ± 0.948
(1.035)
134.6 ± 0.66
(1.18)
132.96 ± 1.52
(2.37)
129.5 ± 1.08
(4.91)
128.4 ± 1.19
(5.73)
CPLT oil 139 ± 1.03
000 (0.00)
138.45 ± 1.88
(0.395)
135.52 ± 1.21
(2.503)
135.34 ± 1.49
(2.63)
134.53 ± 1.07
(3.21)
134.50 ± 0.875
(3.237)
134.4 ± 1.20
(3.30)
Soil baits 137.16 ± 1.23
000 (0.00)
135.71 ± 1.43
(1.05)
133.83 ± 1.12
(2.42)
132.16 ± 0.874
(3.645)
131.50 ± 0.763
(4.12)
129.83 ± 5.80
(5.80)
128.33 ± 0.494
(0.494)
Control 141.83 ± 1.12
000 (0.00)
138.6 ± 1.19
(23.85)
66.83 ± 0.972
(52.88)
46.50 ± 1.31
(67.21)
39.16 ± 0.849
(72.38)
35.8 ± 1.12
(74.75)
31.03 ± 0.816
(78.12)
*Seed treatment was done for 24 hrs by using different combinatorial formulations of latex before showing. **Plant loss was noted in 2.5 × 2.5 m2 plot size
based on available germinating and growing plants regularly at 10 days.
was 6.45%, in case of CPLT 3 it was approximately
8.01% (Table 5). When both latex seed treatments and its
spray were applied it has shown massive protection
against termites but provided somewhat lesser yield in
comparison to others due to repellent action of neem oil
to the pollinating insects. In such treatments, termite in-
festation was least observed. In controls, where no
treatment was applied, crop losses were very high and
exceeded up to 78.12% (Table 5). Statistical analysis of
treated and untreated seeds, gave a negative correlation r
= −3780 and p value 0.0230 that considered significant.
The data analysis shows that cause of crop loss is not
only due to termite infestation but some other behavioral
or ecological factors are also responsible for crop losses.
As in field experiments crop losses were increased with
time, rise in temperature and humidity (data not pre-
sented). Negative correlation also indicates non-linear
relationship of tested methods as the primary cause of
termite control is toxic action of latex formulations but
still secondary factors other than chemical control also
help in suppression of termite population in crop fields.
In the beginning, worker termites initiated destruction of

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294 287
sprouting seeds and growing plummules between day 10
- 15, later on it was led to foliage damage up to 120 days,
then infested flowering and unripe seed damage by
workers and soldiers. Primary infestation was observed
just after germination of seedlings, it was mainly done by
dwelling soldiers and worker termites of O. obesus but it
was rated very high between 90 - 120 days in controls in
comparison to treatments done.
Plant latex based formulations have maintained the
termite infestation very low that has lead to significant
increase in crop yield. In field experiments when seed
treatments and spray both have applied yield was very
high in comparison to control in which no treatment was
done. Moreover, soil baits were found more effective in
crop field which successfully check the termite infesta-
tion by systemic activity. Furthermore, these have pro-
tected the plants and maintained the higher crop yield, i.e.
522.8 ± 3.58 gm/m2 (Table 6) when two sprays were
allowed in the same treatments. Similarly, CPLT 1 and
CPLT + oil treatments have shown significantly higher
crop yield 460.16 ± 2.35 and 423 ± 3.80 gm/m2, respec-
tively (Table 6). Spray was not found much successful in
comparison to mixed methods used and it has given
comparatively low yield which was obtained between
238 - 413 gm/m2 (Table 6). Statistical analysis of differ-
ent treatments in control shows yield differences as
F-values obtained were not significantly different (F =
0.727). Massive protection in early stage of seed germi-
nation was due to systemic action of plant latex based
formulations, later on infestation was controlled by
spraying the same formulations on plant foliages i.e.
contact insecticidal activity. It has imposed repellent and
anti-feedant activity in termites.
6. DISCUSSION
In the present study, plant latex based formulations
have shown a significant anti-termite efficacy against
Odontotermes obesus in garden saplings and crop field.
In toxicity bioassays crude latex, latex fractions and its
various combinatorial formulations have shown very
high lethality in termites, which is proved by very low
LD 50 values obtained. Further, the addition of certain
additives to the latex has improved the termiticidal po-
tential and showed synergistic activity. LD 50 values
obtained in toxicity bioassays were found in a range of
1.987 - 17.613 μg/gm (Table 1). It is highly noticeable
that Calotropis procera fractions in termites remain ac-
tive for longer duration and cause high lethality. The in-
dex of toxicity estimation indicates that the mean value
was within the limit at all probabilities (90%, 95% and
99%) as it is less than 0.05 values of t-ratio. Besides this,
regression was also found significant. The steep slope
values indicate that even a small increase in the dose
causes high mortality. Values of the heterogeneity less
than 1.0 denotes that in the replicate test of random sam-
ple, the dose response time would fall with in 95% con-
fidence limit and thus the model fits the data adequately.
Analyses of experimental data clear that Calotropis pro-
cera latex contains highly toxic components which dis-
play high toxicity that is dose and time dependent. In
addition, latex based formulations have shown deleteri-
ous effects on insects like anti-feedant, growth and re-
productive inhibitory activities [7]. In the previous stud-
ies C. procera latex also showed toxic effects against
Culex quinquefasciatus [11], Sarcophaga haemorrhoi-
dalis [12] and Musca domestica [13,23], Anopheles ste-
phensi [24] and showed inhibition of gonotrophic cycles
[4], oviposition [25], egg hatching and larval develop-
ment in Aedes aegypti [15]. Similarly, latexes from Eu-
phorbia spledens var. (hislopii: Euphorbiaceae) effect
post embryonic development of Megaselia sclaleris
(phoridae). Latexes from Asclepias humistrata (sandhill
milkweed) [26], Calotropis procera and Ficus racemosa
have shown larvicidal activity [27], Parahancornia ampa
(Apocynaceae), latex shows effect on post embryonic
development of blowfly Chrysomya megacephala (Dip-
tera: Calliphoridae) [28]. Similar anti-termite potential
was observed in (Tung tree) Aleurites fordii extracts
against Reticuletermes flavipes [29].
This insecticidal activity in plant latex is due to pres-
ence of alkaloids like nicotine, anabasine, methyl ana-
Table 6. Effect of Plant latex based formulation on yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) a legume of the family Fabaceae.
Latex formulation Seed treatment Yield in gm/m2 Seed treatment and spray Yield in gm/m2Spray only Yield in gm/m2
CPLT 1 424.66 ± 2.96 (12.00)* 460.16 ± 2.35 (13.02) 404.66 ± 1.25 (11.45)**
CPLT 2 378.33 ± 3.24 (10.70) 409.66 ± 3.61 (11.59)# 358.16 ± 2.08 (10.13)
CPLT 3 327.33 ± 1.52 (9.26) 435.16 ± 1.74 (12.31) 238.00 ± 1.39 (6.37)
CPLT oil 385 ± 2.479 (10.93) 423.16 ± 3.80 (11.97) 413.33 ± 1.80 (11.69)
Soil baits 449.66 ± 3.41 (12.72)* 522.8 ± 3.58 (14.79)* 409.16 ± 2.05 (11.58)*
Control 35.33 ± 3.47 (no treatment) 35.33 ± 3.47 (no treatment) 21.0 ± 1.224 (no treatment)
*Seed treatment was done for 24 hrs by using different combinatorial formulations of latex before sowing; **Spray was applied on the crop at an interval 20 days,
#In rackets yield is reported in folds or in times in comparison to controls. b

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294
288
basine and lupinine [8], glycosidase inhibitors 1,4-dide-
oxy-1,4-imino-d-arabinitol (d-AB 1) and 1-deoxyno-
jirimycin (DNJ) [8]. Similarly, cysteine proteases occur
in latex of papaya (Carica papaya) and wild fig (Ficus-
virgata) were found highly toxic to caterpillars of her-
bivorous insects [9]. Similarly, few natural products such
as sugar mimic alkaloids [30,31] flavonoids [32,33],
sesquiterpenes [34], triterpenes [35] and thiophenes [36],
lectins [37,38], latex proteins [39], acetogenins [40] and
other botanicals [8,41] isolated from different plants spe-
cies were found active against silk worm, Bombyx mori
and termites [42]. Similarly latex chitinases [43], glyco-
sidase inhibitors [44] and few secondary metabolites of
plant origin show strong insecticidal properties [10].
Moreover, cysteine proteases, profilins and chitin-related
proteins/chitinases [45] act as catalytic enzymes [46] and
provide defense against phytopathogenic fungi and other
bacterial infections [47,48]. These are insecticidal in na-
ture and inhibit feeding, egg hatching, larval develop-
ment and oviposition [49] and play an important role in
plant-insect interactions [10]. Due to presence of these
allergens [50] and enzymatic proteins [47], plant latex is
considered analogous to animal venom and serves as
defense material against herbivorous insects [44]. Plant
latex from Euphorbia milii also showes molluscicidal
activity and kill intermediate host Biomphalaria spp., of
the human liver parasite Schistosoma mansoni. It con-
tains Milin, a serine protease (up to 0.1 mg/l), which sig-
nificantly reduced the growth and feeding activity in
snails [51]. In addition, there are so many plant species
belong to different families that secrete latexes having
diverse phytochemicals may possess very high insecti-
cidal potential against many insect pests [8-10]. More-
over, plant products show both toxic and repellent activ-
ity against many insect pests [52].
Furthermore, latex generated deleterious effects in in-
sects may be due to presence of α-amylase inhibitors [53],
N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminase [54], flavonoids [55] and
different types of lectins [56]. As it is already reported
that laticifer fluids from Calatropis procera contain en-
dogenous soluble proteins which are enzymatic in nature
[57] and show proteolytic [49,58] and insecticidal activ-
ity [49], these proteins mainly proteases found in differ-
ent plant latexes [46,59] seem to be associated with in-
secticidal activity [60,57] and play a defensive role in
plants [61] similar to lectin molecules [56]. C. procera
latex also contains Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors [62]
which inhibit feeding in caterpillars by disrupting peri-
trophic matrix [63]. Similarly, class II chitinases and pa-
pain occurring in Carica papaya latex also play a defen-
sive role against herbivorous insects [61] and deter them
from feeding by making the food unpalatable to insects
[60]. Thus, proteins, enzymes and allergens protect
plants from herbivorous insect attack [64,65], but it is
still unclear that repellent activity in plant latexes is due
to presence of proteins or volatile substances occur in
latex fluid [66]. As literature reveals, plant latexes con-
tain different chemical components which show high
anti-feedant, effects on herbivorous insects, when treated
with different doses [67] in artificial diets [68]. These
candidate molecules which exhibit repellency are mono-
terpenes, alkaloids, phenolic glycosides, [6] and 2-tride-
canone [67]. However, in the present study when frac-
tionated latex samples were used, its toxicity remained
intact with the fractions and showed higher insecticidal
activity in Odontotermes obesus. It is due to presence of
soluble components in C. procera latexes, but precipi-
tated substance did not show any deterrent effect on in-
sects [68,69]. Thus, deterrent activity may be a conse-
quence of a repellent effect, which is certainly operated
by some soluble and non-volatile substances from latexes.
There is another possibility that insecticidal activity
might be associated with the carbohydrate-binding cata-
lytic protein or may be a terpene conjugate in latex.
In addition, sub-lethal concentration (w/v) of latex
fractions and different combinatorial formulations have
shown significant (p < 0.05) repellent activity at a very
low dose with an ED50 ranged between 0.008 - 0.121
µg/gm (Table 2). Interestingly, solvent fractions have
repelled mean number of insects 12.125 while 11.75
mean numbers of insects were repelled by crude latex in
olfactometer. ED50 values obtained in crude latex were
0.121 μg/mg body weights while combinatorial formula-
tions have shown ED50 in between 0.015 - 0.036 μg/mg
(Table 2). Statistical analysis of repelled and un-repelled
termites gave a low Chi-square value (X2 value = 0.890)
which is an indicator of independence of repellent action
in selected termite groups. It shows actual ranges and
expected ranges were quite independent and concentra-
tion and anti-termite formulations presented to termites
were key factors in repellency in tests and comparison in
control. Further, application of pre soaked cotton threads
impregnated with Calotropis procera crude latex for tag-
ging around tree trunks generated justifiable toxicity and
repellent action in randomly selected termite population
after treatment. However, employment of these pre-
coated threads significantly decreased (p < 0.05 and 0.01)
infestation rate and tunneling activity in Odontotermes
obesus (Table 3). However, F-values obtained indicate
successful random control of termites in the groups.
[F0.05 = 4.10, F0.01 = 7.56], F is significant for X value
while for Y values it is non-significant and Fxy = 5.38.
(Table 3). There was a significant decrease observed in
mud plastering after a regular spray on the infested trees
as it was found and no further termite infestation was ob-
served even after 6 months of experiment.
When infested saplings were treated with latex formu-
lation by applying both spray and tag binding methods, it

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294 289
has significantly reduced the number of termites
(26.74%), % infestation (15.79%) and tunneling activity
(24.30%) in garden (Table 3) while gully filling and la-
tex washing gave extra decrease in number of termites
(9.258%), % infestation (13.17%) and tunneling activity
(29.46%) (Table 3). These have done heavy intoxication
in termites, suppression of orientation, movement, feed-
ing and tunneling behavior in termites. There was a sig-
nificant decrease observed in mud plastering and tunnel-
ing behavior in termites after regular spray on the in-
fested trees and no further termite infestation was ob-
served even after 6 months of experiment. It shows
presence of some distasteful or allergic components in
Calotropis procera which are highly toxic and repellent
in nature. Further, presence of these putative latex me-
tabolites imparts deterrent activity that may be a conse-
quence of a repellent effect, which deters large number
of termites from making life surviving behavior in the
foraging territory. In addition, the protective function of
latex may be workable against other termite species and
herbivorous insects. There is much possibility that small-
er components of latex origin may be volatile in nature,
act as restraint molecules and persists for longer periods
after treatment in the medium.
Similar treatments of Calotropis procera latex frac-
tions and combinatorial formulations cut down the infes-
tation in seasoned wood sticks planted in the garden soil
even after six months of treatments (Table 5). These
have protected the wood weight loss up to 3.94% and no
infestation was observed even after 6 months of experi-
ments (Table 4). All such insecticidal actions of latex are
due to presence of different bio-chemicals of diverse
biological activity [5]. Similarly, natural amides such as
nootkatone [70], valencenoid derivatives [71], imidaclo-
prid [72] deter feeding in termites and suppress adult
survival [73]. Moreover, larch wood flavonoids [74] and
stilbene rich compounds such as piceid (3,4,5-trihy-
droxystilbene glucoside), isorhapontin (3-methoxy-3,4,5
trihydroxystilbene-3-d-glucoside) and astringin (3,3,4,5-
tetrahydroxystilbene-3-d-glucoside) isolated from bark
of Picea glehnii also deter termites at a very low concen-
tration 0.63 to 2.5 µmol/disc [75]. Similarly, 2’ ace-
tonaphthone also obstruct tunneling and feeding behavior
in Formosan subterranean termite Coptotermes formo-
sanus Shiraki at 8.33 mg/kg concentration [76] while
application of Summon disks and filter paper disks coated
with few chitin synthesis inhibitors, i.e. diflubenzuron,
hexaflumuron and chlorfluazuron [77] controlled the
aggregation, feeding and recruitment behavior in Cop-
totermes formosanus termites. Moreover, plumbagin, iso-
diospyrin and microphyllone or quinnones [78] from root
extracts of Diospyros sylvatica impose significant toxic
and repellent action in subterranean termite, Odontoter-
mes obesus in filter paper disc bioassays. Similarly, in
no-choice bioassays limonoids from meliaceae and ruta-
ceae families showed strong. antifeedant activity in Re-
ticulitermes speratus Kolbe at 510 - 1360 ppm concen-
tration [79]. Similarly, in a filter paper based bioassay
guineesine, a minor constituent isolated from Piper ni-
grum shows >90% mortality in Coptotermes formosanus
Shiraki at 1% wt/wt application [80]. It is a biodegrad-
able environmental friendly natural product shows mini-
mal mammalian toxicity [30]. Similarly, diterpene acids
act as good anti-feedants [81] while pine resin and its de-
rivatives, cis/trans-deiso propyl dehydroabietanol showed
promising anti-termite performance [81]. Similarly, mo-
noterpenes diterpenes sesquiterpene and hydrocarbons
present in Cajput oil (Melunuca cajputi) were proved
highly toxic to Coptotermes formosanus [82,83].
In addition, essential oils have also shown very strong
repellent and toxic activity against Formosan subterra-
nean termite due to presence of volatile compounds [83].
Similarly essential oils such as Calocedrus formosana
(Cupressaceae) effectively work against Coptotermes
formosanus at very low dose 27.6 mg/g [84] while maca
(Lepidium meyenii) essential oil effectively kills Cop-
totermes formosanus at 1% (w/w) concentration [85].
Similarly, clove bud oil [86], patchouli oil and patchouli
alcohol have shown high toxicity and repellency against
termites [87]. Similarly, vetiver oil, nootkatone and diso-
dium octaborate tetrahydrate affect termite tunneling,
feeding and wood digestion by symbiont protozoa re-
sides inside the termite gut [80]. Vetiver oil is a confined
novel termiticide with reduced environmental impact for
use against subterranean termites [70].
Further, in field experiments Calotropis procera latex
has shown high protective efficacy in germinating crop
plants against termite infestation. Thus, treatments have
shown activity against termites up to crop maturation and
significantly reduced crop losses up to 5.73% (Table 5).
Further, seed treatment with latex and neem oil with two
sprays applied, generated massive protection against
termites. In such treatments termite infestation was least
observed. In controls, where no treatment was applied,
crop losses were very high and exceeded up to 78.12%
(Table 5). Statistical analysis of treated and untreated
seeds gave a negative correlation between r = −3780 and
p value 0.0230 that was considered significantly. The
data analysis shows that cause of crop loss is due to not
only termite infestation but some other behavioral or
ecological factors which are also responsible for crop
losses. As in field experiments crop losses were in-
creased with time, rise in temperature and humidity (data
were not presented). Negative correlation also indicates
non-linear relationship of tested methods as the primary
cause of termite control is the toxic action of latex for-
mulations, but still secondary factors other than chemical
control also help in suppression of termite population in

R. K. Upadhyay / Open Journal of Animal Sciences 3 (2013) 281-294
290
crop fields. Further, latex based formulations have main-
tained the termite infestation very low that has led to a
significant increase in crop yield. In field experiments
when seed treatments and spray both have applied, yield
was very high in comparison to control in which no
treatment was done.
Further, for enhancing the insecticidal potential of
Calotropis procera and its target specificity, elemental
sulfur was mixed with latex which has shown synergistic
effect on termites and successfully exploited feeding,
tunneling [88] and reproductive behavior in termites [89].
These soil baits were found more effective in crop field
and could check the termite infestation by systemic ac-
tivity. Furthermore, these which have protected the plants
and maintained the crop yield significantly higher than
the controls with two sprays were allowed in the same
treatments. Spray was not found much successful in
comparison to mixed methods used and it has given com-
paratively low yield which was obtained between 238 -
413 gm/m2 (Table 6). Statistical analysis of different
treatments in control shows yield differences as F-values
obtained were not significantly different (F = 0.727).
Massive protection in early stage of seed germination
was due to systemic action of plant latex based formula-
tions, later on infestation was controlled by spraying the
same formulations on plant foliages i.e. contact insecti-
cidal activity. It has imposed repellent and anti-feedant
activity in termites. It is possible that soluble fractions of
latex and residual sulfur may form some new products
that may enhance the toxic and repellent action against
termites. Similarly, sulfonated watlle tannins alone com-
bined with copper chloride at different concentrations
and cashew nut shell liquid without or with copper chlo-
ride have successfully prevented termite attack [90]. In
poison baits, a mixture of 40% CSNL + 1% CuCl2 and
40% CNSL + 2% CuCl2 has significantly cut down the
damages done by the termites after 10 days exposure
[90]. Similarly, enhancement of termiticidal activity is
also observed after addition of boron [91], copper II
compounds tri- and di-alkeylamine-boric acid complex
[74]. These significantly reduced termite damage and
infestation and are eco-friendly [90,91].
As it is a well known fact that sulfur and its compounds
are antimicrobial in nature, however, latex based combi-
natorial mixture having substantial, quantity of sulfur
may affect exoskeleton of termites and show antimicro-
bial activity against termite gut micro-fauna. Because gut
microflora is the only source of wood digesting enzymes,
greater inhibition or death of microflora by latex com-
ponents and sulfur may raise hunger in termites and re-
sult in higher mortality in termites like other plant de-
rived natural products [92]. Therefore, addition of sulfur
to latex based formulations and its use in any form may
lead to death of termites that can control its population in
crop field and in garden soil. It has doubled the protec-
tion in the seasoned woods. Hence, toxic and repellent
action of latex formulations is essentially substantiated
by addition of sulfur and it seems to be the reason of
diminishing microbial population that helps termites in
cellulose/wood digestion leading to the destruction of
termites by due effects of latex components on behavior
and physiology of termites. Further, gaining of extra hu-
midity by tree bark due to pouring rain water creates a
suitable substratum for growth of many fungi and bacte-
ria. It becomes extra soft due to rain water and becomes
palatable for termites and induces mud plastering and
tunneling behavior in termites. If microbial population is
prevented from growing on these sites by using latex
based formulations, termites are forcibly prevented from
mid plastering and tunneling behavior, which may be
able to control termite population.Similarly, addition of
Nootkatone affects wood consumption, termite survival
and affects growth of flagellate symbionts [70]. Poison
waits show slow release of latex formulations that pre-
vents termites infestation for a longer period as it was
observed in the field experiments. However, results ob-
tained in present investigation show that Calotropis pro-
cera possesses enough anti-termite potential to against
Indian white termite, O. obesus population. If used, these
formulations may also provide a wide range of control
against other kinds of pests. The mode of action will be
both contacted and systemic that can control the termite
infestation and damage. These formulations can be used
in spray, or in form of poison baits or as fumigant in pure
form. Hence, strong recommendations are being made to
develop eco-friendly anti-termite formulation from Calotro-
pis procera for effective control of field termites. These
might be much safer, easily biodegradable in the medium,
show no residual effect, cheaper and easily available in
the market for farmers use. Such formulations might be
environmentally more acceptable than any other syn-
thetic pesticide and work positively in different climatic
conditions against a wide range of insect pests.
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