Atividade acaricida de extratos de Mauritia flexuosa e Mauritiella armata em Rhipicephalus microplus (Ixodidae)

Abstract

Introduction: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) micropluscauses great economic losses in cattle herds, and its control by means of synthetic ticks faces resistance problems, in addition to the risk of residues in food and environment. Objective:To evaluate the effects of ethanolic extract from leaves of Mauritia flexuosa(EEF) and Mauritiella armata(EEA) on R. microplus. Method:The action of the ethanolic extract of both palms (EEF and EEA) on the reproductive parameters of engorged females was evaluated by the biotickicidogram method and larval mortality by the larval package test (LPT). The characterization of the chemical composition present in the extracts was performed by gas chromatography (GC-MS). Results:The EEF and EEA were efficient in reducing larval hatchability with efficacy superior to 85% at concentrations above 75 mg mL-1. However, the effects of the extracts on larval mortality were not significant at any of the concentrations tested. Catechins were identified by GC-MS in the extracts of M. flexuosaand M. armata, being indicated as an important flavonoid of antiparasitic action. Conclusion:FES and EEA may interfere in the reproductive parameters of R. microplus, reducing larval infestation, proving to be a promising alternative in the control of this ectoparasite.