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Original Research Open Access
Volume 7 | Issue 1 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.46439/biomedres.7.086

Dual assessment of the effectiveness of neem tree (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) both as termite bio-pesticide and fertilizing agent in Eritrea

  • 1Department of Biology, Mai Nefhi College of Science, Mai Nefhi, Asmara, Eritrea
+ Affiliations - Affiliations

Corresponding Author

Michael Weldeslassie, fru.malet@gmail.com

Received Date: March 02, 2026

Accepted Date: May 19, 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Global agriculture faces substantial yield losses and environmental degradation caused by a heavy dependence on synthetic pesticides. As a sustainable alternative, the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) produces bioactive compounds, such as azadirachtin, which function as natural insecticides. This study evaluates the efficacy of Neem extract sourced from Asmara, Eritrea, as a biological control against termites and organic fertilizer. 
Methods: Dried Neem leaves were processed into a sprayable solution and tested against Macrotermes bellicosus. Efficacy was measured by wood weight loss and termite mortality within experimental and control groups. Additionally, an organic fertilizer derived from Neem seeds was applied to Lactuca sativa (lettuce) plots at two geographical sites to assess growth impact. 
Results: The Control group exhibited a mean weight loss of 77.78% [95% CI: 14.53% -141.02%], while the Experimental group showed a mean loss of 52.78% [95% CI: 25.60% - 131.15%]. Although the Experimental group showed numerically lower weight loss but was not statistically significant (p = 0.3456). A Chi-square analysis of total weight distribution revealed a significant difference (x2 = 9.63, p = 0.0019). The Experimental group reached 100% mortality within 30 hours, whereas the Control group reached the same threshold only at 42 hours. The Mann-Whitney U test confirmed that the Experimental group experienced significantly faster mortality than the Control group (p = 0.0001). Regarding plant growth, medium-concentration plots yielded the largest mean leaf areas (918 cm² and 482.5 cm²), surpassing both control and high-concentration experimental groups. 
Conclusion: While Neem extract is an effective biological control agent, further research is required to quantify its efficacy across diverse termite species and to evaluate the long-term impact of increased dosages on colony suppression.

Keywords

Neem Tree, Azadirachta indica, Termite, Macrotermes bellicosus, Biological Control, Organic Fertilizer

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