Larvicidal Activities of Averrhoa Bilimbi L.
(Kamias) Fruit Extract on Aedes Aegypti
Almazol, Michael John SM.
Dreu, Lyn Rica V.
Inocencio, Rhyza P.
Lipata, Jennifer C.
Sace, Michaela B.
Senior High School, Assemblywoman Felicita G. Bernardino Memorial Trade
School
Research Capstone
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2016), mosquito bites result in the deaths of
more than 1 million people every year. Mosquitoes are known vectors that transmit pathogenic
microorganisms contributing to the toll of morbidities and mortalities worldwide. These organisms
proliferate in the environment and continually affect the quality of life of each individual affected by
mosquito-borne diseases. In the Philippines, numerous mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, malaria,
and filariasis continue to affect each individual. The burden of mosquito-borne diseases to the general
public may bring about morbidity and or death. Dengue infections are one of the most important
mosquito-borne diseases, as 186,416 cases and 59 deaths were reported in 2012 (Mistica et al., 2019).
Current control measures for vector-borne infectious diseases are under threat and new strategies,
including genetic control, are urgently needed (Biedler et al., 2016). There are more than 3,000 species
of mosquitoes, but the members of Aedes aegypti bear primary responsible for the spread of human
diseases. Aedes aegypti is one of the main species responsible for the transmission of mosquito-borne
5pathogens worldwide. These pathogens include the viruses that cause Zika virus disease, chikungunya
fever and dengue fever, which place a heavy burden on human communities (Liittschwager et al.,n.d.).
The extensive use of synthetic insecticides to control vector-borne diseases has caused increased insect
resistance and adverse health effects on humans and the ecosystem. Also, repetitive chemical control
can cause new issues, such as leaving residue that can contaminate the environment. Thus, alternative
methods to control Aedes aegypti population, which is more eco-friendly, can be applied therefore, one
of those methods is by using natural chemical compounds extracted from plants with potential as
effective and eco-friendly control of mosquito larvae. This results in the exploration of natural larvicide
from plants. The larvae stage is considered the most appropriate stage for vector control because it is
immobile during this stage. It can be controlled by applying insecticides to larvae habitats (Tennyson et
al., 2012). The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Averrhoa bilimbi crude fruit extract on
mortality of Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. Averrhoa bilimbi has been identified to contain bioactive
compounds with insecticidal activity such as saponins and terpenoids ( Etik et al., 2020). Larvicidal
compounds contained in Averrhoa bilimbi extract are expected to be able to be used as an alternative
method to control mosquito-borne diseases, which is potentially more eco-friendly, effective, and low-
cost with wide availability in nature.
This study aims to figure out the potential use of Averrhoa Bilimbi L. fruit extract as an alternative
natural ingredient in eradicating Aedes Aegypti mosquito larvae as well as a better alternative to
commercial larvicides. The research was carried out in the municipality of Marilao, which is located in
the province of Bulacan. The major subject of the study, Kamias, was picked in local areas in Marilao
since it is widespread in the area.
Statement of the Problem
This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the said mosquito larvae killer. In particular, it sought
to answer the following questions:
1.) Will the natural larvicide be effective against disease vector mosquitoes?
2.) Is the cost less expensive as compared to commercially produced larvicide?
Significance of the Study
This study will help people understand more about Averrhoa bilimbi’s potential as an
alternative. This study will also help the public know how to control the populations of Aedes aegypti
This study will be beneficial to the following:
The Community. The people will benefit by decreasing or lessening the mosquito larvae that
pose a threat to their health. In addition to allowing people to live a safer and healthier life, the study
also offers low-cost insecticides.
The Environment. The study will help reduce the quantity of mosquito larvae that reproduce on
waste and surface water, especially stored water.
The Government. The study can help the government raise public awareness of the threat and
make insecticides more affordable for a wider population.
The Department of Health (DOH). This study can help the Department of Health minimize the
number of cases related to mosquitoes by making insecticides more available.
The Future Researchers. This study will be a useful reference for the researchers, who may need
to use it as a reference for a related study or as a basis.
Overview of the Structure
This research was to attempts Averrhoa Bilimbi L. possible usage. Fruit extract is an improved
natural substitute for synthetic larvicides in the control of Aedes aegypti and Culex mosquito larvae. This
article describes how natural resources are abundant, cost-effective, and environmentally benign.
Additionally, it mentions that mosquitoes are known to spread dangerous bacteria, increasing the
number of morbidities and fatalities worldwide. These organisms multiply in the environment and
continuously deteriorate the quality of life for every person who contracts an illness carried by a
mosquito.
References
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