Evaluation of aqueous extract of neem (Azadirachta indica) seeds as a chigger repellent for cattle

With the aim of studying the chigger-repelling effect of the aqueous extract of neem seeds (EASN), 28 crossbred suckling calves were selected from the cattle herd of ESPAM MFL University. The calves were divided into four groups, to which the following treatments (T) were applied: T1 (4% EASN), T2 (5% EASN), T3 (6% EASN), and T4 (Amitraz 1 mL/L) as a control treatment. For biopreparation of EASN, we carried out the following processes: grinding, weighing, preparation and sieving. We used a completely randomized design, consisting of one factor and the above-mentioned levels. The Tukey’s Test with an overall risk level of 5% was used to identify statistical differences in the obtained values. The dependent variable (number of chiggers) was measured through direct observations before and three days after application of EASN treatments. Results showed a significant chigger-repelling effect in T2 and T3, as compared to T4 (control). The cost-benefit analysis showed positive values in T1 and T2. We concluded that T1 (4% EASN) can be used as an effective biological chigger-repelling alternative for calves, which in addition to its low cost, it poses no risk to the environment.

• Main Author: Hurtado, Ernesto Antonio (author)
• Other Authors: Bravo Loor, Johnny Daniel (author), Arteaga Chávez, Fátima Graciela (author), Mejía Ordoñez, Mauro Vinicio (author), García Álvarez, Remigio Leonardo (author)
• Format: article
• Language: spa
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: Azadirachta indica; terneros; garrapaticida; biopreparado; ectoparásitos; calves; chigger repellent; biopreparation; ectoparasites
• Online Access: https://revistasespam.espam.edu.ec/index.php/Revista_ESPAMCIENCIA/article/view/95