Pesticidal effects of scent leaf (<i>Ocimum gratissimum</i> L.) on maize weevil: potency of scent leaf on <i>Sitophilus zeamais</i>

Maize weevil is a major pest of stored maize grains in many regions the world including Nigeria. A laboratory investigation was conducted to assess potency Ocimum gratissimum leaves for Sitophilus zeamais control. O. powder used ethanolic extract preparation by soaking 300g dry powdered plant material 1.5 litres ethanol 24 hours at room temperature with continuous stirring 10 minutes. The tested phytochemical constituents, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds terpenoids, steroids, glycoside, and flavonoids, were all present except steroids. Exposure adult S different concentrations generated significant cumulative mortality, increased as concentration increased; 35.5%, 64.4%, 95.5%, 100% mortalities 30,150, 250, 750 mg/ml extract, respectively. capacity induce mortality 750mg/ml revealed its potential an insecticidal agent, evoked low weight loss, seed damage against weevils on treated highest dosage extract.The displayed high level activity suggesting possibility using it toxicants, repellents, feeding deterrents, food poisoning agents integrated management strategies zeamais.