Abstract

Laboratory assays were carried out to evaluate the effect of methanolic extract of Artemisia annua L. on some biochemical compounds in the hemolymph of Hyphantria cunea Drury (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae). It was found that the activity levels of two aminotransferases and phosphatases increased after extract exposure. Activity of lactatae dehydrogenase, as an enzyme showing tissue damage, significantly increased in all time intervals. Non-enzymatic parameters including, trehalose, protein and urea decreased after treatment by plant extract but the amount of total lipid showed no significant differences. These results indicate that A. annua L. extract contains inhibitors of key metabolic pathways that may be useful in future control of the fall webworm.

Key words: Artemisia annua, biochemical compounds, Hyphantria cunea.