Efficacy of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Biopesticides Against Stem Borer (Busseola fusca) Infestation in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) Varieties in the Sudan Savanna, Nigeria

H. A. Koria, H.T. Abdulrahmanb*, J. M. Turakib

aRegistry department, Kashim Ibrahim University, A. K. Benisheikh Staff Model School, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
bDepartment of Zoology, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

*Corresponding author’s Email: tati66.ng@gmail.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.020100105


ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT The study evaluated the efficacy of neem-based biopesticides against stem borer (Busseola fusca) infestation in sorghum varieties (SAMSORG-3, SAMSORG-6, and SAMSORG-40) under Sudan Savanna conditions of Nigeria during the 2017 rainy season. A split-plot design with three replications was employed. Neem seed formulations (aqueous extract, oil, and powder) were applied weekly for six weeks, while Carbofuran served as a synthetic control. Results indicated significant differences among treatments (p < 0.05). SAMSORG-6 and SAMSORG-3 recorded lower dead hearts and exit holes, whereas SAMSORG-40 produced the highest grain yield (1106.7 kg/ha). Neem aqueous extract and powder significantly reduced leaf damage, dead hearts, and chaffy heads compared to neem oil and control treatments. Although Carbofuran showed superior efficacy, neem-based treatments demonstrated substantial pest suppression and yield improvement. These findings support integrating neem biopesticides with tolerant sorghum varieties as an environmentally sustainable strategy for managing stem borer infestations.

KEYWORDS

Neem seed,
Biopesticide,
Stem borer,
Sorghum varieties.

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