What are the common plants used for preparation of Bio-pesticides? Explain the features of 05 such plants about their biological activities.

Biopesticides are derived from natural sources such as plants, microbes, or other organisms, and they are used to control pests in agriculture while minimizing environmental impact. Several common plants are utilized to make biopesticides due to their natural pesticidal properties. Here are five plants commonly used for biopesticide production, along with their biological activity and characteristics:

1. Neem (Azadirachta indica):

   • Biological Activity: Neem contains compounds called azadirachtins, which exhibit strong insecticidal and repellent properties against a wide range of pests including aphids, beetles, caterpillars, and mites.
   • Characteristics: Neem biopesticides disrupt insect growth and development by affecting molting and metamorphosis. They also have antifeedant properties, making pests lose interest in feeding on treated plants.

2. Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium):

   • Biological Activity: Pyrethrum contains natural insecticidal compounds called pyrethrins, which affect the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death.
   • Characteristics: Pyrethrum biopesticides are effective against a broad spectrum of insect pests, including mosquitoes, flies, moths, and beetles. They have low toxicity to mammals and break down rapidly in the environment.

3. Garlic (Allium sativum):

   • Biological Activity: Garlic contains sulfur compounds such as allicin, which have insecticidal, fungicidal, and bactericidal properties.
   • Characteristics: Garlic biopesticides repel insects and pests due to their strong odor and taste. They are also effective against fungal diseases like powdery mildew and bacterial pathogens.

4. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum spp.):

   • Biological Activity: Chrysanthemum flowers contain pyrethrins, similar to pyrethrum, which act as potent insecticides by disrupting insect nervous systems.
   • Characteristics: Chrysanthemum-derived biopesticides are highly effective against mosquitoes, flies, and other flying insects. They are commonly used in household insecticides and mosquito repellents.

5. Tobacco (Nicotiana spp.):

   • Biological Activity: Tobacco plants produce nicotine, which acts as a natural insecticide with neurotoxic effects on insects.
   • Characteristics: Tobacco-derived biopesticides are effective against a variety of pests including aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. However, due to its toxicity, nicotine-based biopesticides require careful handling and application.

In summary, these common plants serve as valuable sources of biopesticides due to their natural compounds that exhibit pesticidal activities against various pests. Biopesticides derived from plants offer several advantages over synthetic chemical pesticides, including lower environmental impact, reduced toxicity to non-target organisms, and potential compatibility with organic farming practices. However, it's important to note that while biopesticides are generally safer and more environmentally friendly than synthetic chemicals, proper application and dosage management are essential to ensure effective pest control while minimizing unintended consequences on beneficial organisms and ecosystems.