Phytochemical characterization and toxicological evaluation of ethanolic leaf extracts of Nerium oleander in Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

The increasing resistance to synthetic pesticides and their harmful environmental effects have highlighted the need for safer, eco-friendly alternatives. In this context, the present study evaluates the biopesticide activity of Nerium oleander , a plant known an ornamental plant abundantly found in the Mediterranean areas of Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. Ethanolic extracts of N. oleander were prepared and analysed using various qualitative and quantitative assays to identify major bioactive compounds. Toxicological assay was conducted using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism to assess effects on Survivability and mortality. A significant reduction in survivability accompanied by increased mortality was observed following exposure to the extract, indicating a concentration-dependent toxic effects likely to be associated due to insecticidal phyto compounds of N. oleander . These phytochemicals are known to contain bioactive properties that contributes in disruption of normal physiological functions in insects. Ability of N. oleander to induce toxicity in D. melanogaster supports its application as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical pesticides for managing agricultural pests with a 48-h LC₅₀ value of 4.8 ± 0.06. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of N. oleander as a promising source of plant-derived biopesticides for sustainable pest management strategies.