Larvicidal and adulticidal effect of green synthesis copper oxide nanoparticles using Achillea fragrantissima and its biological and ultra-structural impact on Culex pipiens

Chemical pesticides are often applied indiscriminately to control vectors, which led to development and unfavorable effects on beneficial organisms. Worldwide, phytochemicals and plant extracts have a multitude of medical uses and may be employed to remove a wide range of germs and pests. Environmentally friendly nanoparticle manufacturing and nanotechnology are the newest trends in a number of sectors. Utilizing a green method, Achillea fragrantissima extract (AcF) was employed to prepare copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs@AcF). Copper oxide nanoparticle was characterized using zeta potential, DLS and transmission electron microscope (TEM). During the study of the AcF extract effect against larvicidal and adulticidal, we found that the effect of AcF extract was less than CuONPs@AcF. Also, we studied the effect of AcF and CuONPs@AcF against the female mosquito's fertility. The effect of the tested substances on the female Culex pipiens ovary was improved by the ultrastructure. KEY WORDS: Nanoparticles green synthesis, Copper oxide, Mosquito, Achillea fragrantissima extract. Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(3), 535-546. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i3.11