author(s)
Krishnananda P Ingle, Amit G Deshmukh, Dipika A Padole, Mahendra S Dudhare, Mangesh P Moharil and Khelurkar VC

abstract
In the present study extracts of leaf, bark, seed, seed coat and roots of Jatropha curcas were extracted using soxhlet extraction method with various solvents. Methanol was found to be the best extractant amongst all the solvents. In order to prescreen, the methanol and solvent extract were then subjected to check for insecticidal activity if any. The biological and phytochemical studies of Jatropha curcas were evaluated against third instar larvae of diamond back moth (Plutella xylostella) and Helicoverpa armigera by Leaf dip method. Antifeedant activity was observed in case of leaf extract against Helicoverpa armigera with total larval weight reduction of 36.27% after 24 hrs when they were fed on cotton leaf treated with the extract, but even after replacing the fresh cotton leaf the weight reduction was 42.08% (after 48 hrs) and 41.55% (after 72 hrs). The seed coat extract was most effective against Plutella xylostella and showed highest mortality 100% at 5% as compared to other extracts whereas in case of Helicoverpa armigera seed coat extract was most effective and showed highest mortality 10, 40 and 60% at 5, 10 and 15% concentration respectively. The results suggested that Jatropha curcas has good insecticidal/antifeedant activity therefore making it ideal potential option for incorporation into pest management program.