Effects of a neem compound on the fecundity and longevity of Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)

A commercial formulation of neem was tested on adult Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) to determine its effects on fecundity and longevity. Four no-choice tests were carried out in the laboratory at constant conditions of temperature, humidity, and photoperiod. Different concentrations were tested mixing neem solutions with the adult's rearing diet The laboratory tests showed that neem significantly reduced fecundity by interfering with oogenesis, which resulted in a complete and irreversible sterility of females. A slight reduction of longevity was also observed. The number of eggs laid decreased with increasing concentrations of azadirachtin in the diet. Preliminary histological observations indicated that the oviposition decrease was the result of a block in ovarian activity. Additional tests confirmed that azadirachtin induced sterility in the females, even when the flies were exposed for shorter periods (24 h).