Effect of marigold ( Tagetes patula L. ) aqueous extract on the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella (L., 1758)

The greater wax moth Galleria mellonella (L., 1758) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is one of the most significant pests in beekeeping. G. mellonella larvae cause serious damage by boring into the honeycombs, leaving behind silken tunnels and feces that can transmit pathogens. This study evaluated the chemotactic response and effects of marigold ( Tagetes patula L.) aqueous extracts on larval mortality, pupation and adult emergence of G. mellonella . In the first experiment, the chemotactic behavior of G. mellonella larvae was examined in response to marigold aqueous extracts at concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. The results indicate that only the 10% marigold aqueous extract, two hours after treatment, acted as an attractant towards G. mellonella larvae. The second experiment investigated the effect of the same concentrations of marigold aqueous extracts on the life cycle of G. mellonella . The results revealed a statistically significant increase in larval mortality in the neem oil and 5% marigold aqueous extract treatments compared to the control treatment. Although 5% marigold aqueous extract exhibited insecticidal activity against G. mellonella , further studies are needed to assess practical efficiency.