biological effects of saponin components extracted from sugar beet (beta vulgaris l.) leaf on spotted alfalfa aphid (therioaphis maculate buckten)

in this study, the biological effects of sugar beet leaf saponins on spotted alfalfa aphid was evaluated using thin layer chromatography. after saponin extraction from the leaf, three saponin concentrations together with a diet lacking saponin (control) were fed to aphids in five replications. the aphids’ survival and fertility were evaluated and analysed. results not only showed fertility impairment of aphids but also confirmed leaf saponin toxicity for aphids in one mg.ml-1 saponin. however, low saponin concentrations had a probiotic effect on aphid nymph production. medium concentrations also decreased aphid fertility up to 50% compared with control. chromatography results showed the expression of two dense spots of leaf triterpenoid saponin on tlc plate. it can be concluded that saponin compounds of sugar beet leaf contain biological effects. therefore, sugar beet leaf saponins can be used for pest management and increasing the plant tolerance through selection and breeding. they could also be used as biological herbicide and even as medicine after further special experiments.