Toxicity and physiological effects of ajwain (Carum copticum, Apiaceae) essential oil and its major constituents against Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae).

The effects of Ajwain essential oil and its major constituents were investigated against newly fourth instar larvae of Tuta absoluta, a major pest of tomato cropping in Iran and other parts of the world. The study included individual efficacy of each compound and determination of their synergistic or antagonistic efficacy. We also determined the activities of detoxifying enzymes in treated insects.