Insecticidal activity of petroleum ether extract of mustard seeds against mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kaltenbach

Petroleum ether extract of mustard seeds was tested against 3rd instar nymphs and adults of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. The extract was found very effective and caused 100% mortality (indicated by non-motility of the insects) at 2% cone. in 24 hours. Fecundity was also reduced significantly. Lower concentrations (1.5 and 1%) were also found to be effective but required longer time to cause complete mortality. This extract appeared to be a useful protectant for Brassica oil seed crop against mustard aphid.