Organic Pesticide from Atis (Anona squamosa) Leaves Extract as an Alternative to Commercial Synthetic Pesticide

(4th Place - Regional DepEd Science Fair, 2010-2011)

Researchers:

Arabit, Ronilyn R.

May-ann Palqueza

De Leon, Ma. Alyzza

Balicat, Hannah Marie

Fatima Nikka Salvania

Research Adviser: Mrs. Ma. Regaele A. Olarte 

Abstract

            Atis is a plant abundant in the Philippines. All parts of atis tree have medicinal properties, such as poultice and enema to children with dyspepsia, abortifacient, cataplasm to induce suppuration, astringent and possess vermicidal properties. Because of these attributes, the researchers aimed to produce an organic pesticide from the extract of Atis leaves ( Anona Squamosa ).

            The pesticide was derived from the extraction of the 750 grams of Atis leaves. The following experimental set-ups had been made: 30% Atis leaves extract and 70% distilled water (15 ml atis leaves extract and 35 ml distilled water.); 50% Atis leaves extract and 50% distilled water (25 ml atis leaves extract and 25 ml distilled water.); 70% Atis leaves extract and 30% distilled water (35 ml atis leaves extract and 15 ml distilled water.); and 100% Atis leaves extract (50 ml pure atis leaves extract). Using the different concentrations, the effectiveness was tested to some pests such as ticks, termites, and hairy caterpillars in terms of mortality rate. T- test showed that there was no significant difference between the experimental product and the commercial product in terms of the pest’s mortality rate, at 0.05 level of significance. The results of experimentation and data analysis showed that the experimental product is just as effective as the commercial pesticide in eradicating pests. Thus, the organic pesticide from Anona squamosa leaves extract could be an alternative to commercial synthetic pesticide.