Ecological management of leaf-cutting ants Atta sexdens piriventris Emery (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) through the use of different methodologies and homeopathic potencies

Abstract

The leaf-cutting ants of the genus Atta are common insects present in most of the American ecosystems and once they cut fresh plant material it may be a serious agriculture pest. Predominantly synthetic insecticides are largely used for controlling these insects, but sometimes with serious damages to human health, environment and other non-target organisms as well. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different homeopathic preparations in the management of leaf-cutting ants Atta sexdens piriventris. The treatments consisted of homeopathic preparations in dynamizations 6, 12, 30 CH, 5 LM and 35 K. The homeopathic preparations were applied daily during 10 days in the form of spray on the passing ants at a trial point. The evaluations were done daily before each application by counting the ants who passed the trails point, and additionally at 20 and 30 days after. The homeopathic preparations had effect on reducing the foraging activities of the leaf-cutting ants A. sexdens piriventris. The homeopathic preparations 6 CH and 30 CH, significantly reduce the foraging activities the leaf-cutting ants A. sexdens piriventris. The homeopathic preparation 30 CH had an extended effect on reducing foraging activities of the leaf-cutting ants A. sexdens piriventris within twenty days after the last application.