Insecticidal effect of silica dioxide nanoparticles against Tenebrio molitor larvae

Bioassays were conducted to explore the effects of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) against larvae of Tenebrio molitor. Silica nanoparticles were applied at the rates of 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 1000 ppm on larvae. Larvae were placed in Petri dishes and sprayed with SiO2 NPs two times in 72 hours. The mortality was counted after 24h, 48h and 72h of exposure. Silica nanoparticles have high toxicity on larvae T. molitor and mortality of larvae increased with increasing concentrations and exposure time. Obtained results showed that silica dioxide nanoparticles were efficient against T. molitor and can be used effectively in plant protection.