LAUSR

Abstract Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) is the most resistant agricultural pest species against synthetic pesticides. The search for botanical products that have mechanisms of action with lower residual effects and low toxicity to other animals has increased considerably. This study aimed to examine the phytochemical profile of Genipa americana L. and to evaluate the survival, reproductive, and feeding changes as well as the biochemical parameters of T. castaneum adults fed an artificial diet over 28 days. To this end, we prepared the aqueous extract (50 mM Tris–HCl pH 8.0) of G. americana bark, based on which we performed phytochemical analysis and bioassays in vivo. G. americana bark contain a lectin. The main secondary compounds in the aqueous extract of G. americana were saponins, tannins, and steroids. Aqueous extract of G. americana bark caused insect mortality of 73 % (250 mg of protein/g of wheat flour) and induced a decrease in the hatching rate (40–96%) of T. castaneum larvae. In addition, the extract inhibited insect feeding at the tested doses of 100 mg, 250 mg, and 500 mg, thus having a deterrent effect. Moreover, the extract interfered considerably with all the evaluated nutritional and biochemical parameters. These results contribute to the search for alternative methods for insect pest control and demonstrate the potential of G. americana to be used in integrated management strategies for the control of T. castaneum.