Efecto del aceite esencial del molle (Schinus molle) en el control de Melophagus ovinus (Diptera: Hippoboscidae)

Abstract

Melophagus ovinus (sheep louse or tick) is an ectoparasite widely distributed in cold climate areas and is mainly associated with different breeds of sheep. In addition to the damage to the skin or wool caused by this ectoparasite, it can also be a transmitter of different pathogens. Given its importance in sheep farming, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of molle (Schinus molle) essential oil on the control of Melophagus ovinus. Three doses of molle oil were tested (5, 10 and 15%) and distilled water was used as a control. The mortality rate was evaluated at 24, 48 and 72 hours after application, and the mean lethal concentration was calculated by graphical methods. Among the results, it was shown that the mortality of M. ovinus increased as the dose of the oil increased, reaching 82.5% when it was used at 5%, while with the doses of 10 and 15% the mortality increased to 85.0 and 90.0. %, respectively, at 24 hours. At 48 h after application, mortality remained at 82.5 and 85% when the 5 and 10% doses were used, while it reached 100% mortality with the highest dose. A similar behavior was observed 72 hours after application. The median lethal concentration (LC50) was calculated at 6.33%. Molle essential oil was shown to be a viable alternative for the control of M. ovinus, however, evaluations are required under in vivo conditions. Keywords: false tick, sheep, natural control