Biocidal Properties of Chrysopogon zizanioides Extracts in the Control of Termites (Microcerotermes beesoni)

Laboratory experiments were conducted on the insecticidal properties of n-Hexane and ethanolic extracts of the leaves and roots of Chrysopogon zizanioides in the control of a caste of Microcerotermes beesoni, termites. Dried and fresh parts of the plant were used for the experiment. The mature fresh leaves and roots used were chopped into matchstick sizes, pulverized and excavated differently in n-hexane and ethanol while studies on the dried parts involved sun-drying before extraction in the solvents. Similarly, different castes of termites obtained from a termitarium were cultured in a jar in the laboratory. The extracts from C. zizanioides were applied differently on the castes of M. beesoni and efficacy was determined through insect mortality rate. Observation showed that all the extracts were highly effective with the highest vigour experiential in the dried root n-hexane extract within 5 seconds.