Inhibition of reproduction of Acanthoscelides obtectus Say (Coleoptera), a kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) bruchid, by aromatic essential oils

Acanthoscelides obtectus Say (Coleoptera, Bruchidae), is a cosmopolitan pest that damages its host plant, the kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the field and during storage. The use of aromatic essential oils from Labiatae, Umbelliferae and Lauraceae was investigated. In addition to a fumigant toxic effect on adult insects, inhibition of reproduction through ovicidal and larvicidal effects was also observed. These actions might be combined to improve the management of this bruchid: essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis, Thymus vulgaris, T. serpyllum, Ocimum basilicum and Cinnamomum verum were very effective and completely controlled the biological development of this insect.