Comparative Assessment of Neem-Based Botanical Insecticides and Synthetic Chemicals for the Effective Management of Brinjal Aphids

Brinjal aphids, neem biopesticides, azadirachtin, natural enemies, eco-friendly pest control, synthetic insecticides, field efficacy, yield improvement

Brinjal aphids cause significant sap loss and stunt plant growth, prompting extensive use of chemical insecticides. This study compared the performance of three neem-based botanical insecticides against two commonly used synthetic chemicals in brinjal fields. Field experiments showed neem-azadirachtin (300 ppm) resulted in a 63% reduction of aphid density after two sprays, comparable to synthetic pyrethroids. However, botanical treatments exhibited lower toxicity toward natural enemies such as ladybird beetles and lacewings. Yield improvements of 18–22% were recorded in neem-treated plots. Results suggest neem formulations are viable alternatives for farmers seeking environmentally safer pest control methods.

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