Ponle Bashirat Ayomide, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

The study was conducted at the Department of Biological Science Bayero University Kano laboratory which was aimed at studying the effect of Citrus sinensis peel extract on larvae and adult of Culex quinquefasciatu. Citrus sinensis peel was collected from Rijiyar lemo in Kano state and was later processed using standard procedure. The peel was extracted using maceration method. Mosquito larvae was collected from the gutter at female hostel Bayero University Kano and was reared at the laboratory using standard procedure. The adult mosquito was identified using a proper taxonomic guild. Bioassay for the larvae and adult were conducted using procedure. The result of the study indicated that Citrus sinensis peel extracted at 6%w/v concentration recorded the highest mortality of the larvae (44.44%) followed by 4%w/v which also recorded (29.63%) mortality. In conclusion Citrus sinensis peel extract at 6%w/v concentration was most effective in killing mosquito larvae and adult respectively. It is recommended that, encouraging public the benefit of Citrus sinensis peel extract will promote waste recycling and sustainability and as well increasing public awareness and implementation on natural mosquito control methods to reduce mosquito population.

Lois Ojochenemi Job, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

This study was conducted to assess the larval load and developmental period of tomato fruit borers on commonly cultivated tomato varieties in Kano State, Nigeria. The objective was to determine the infestation level of larvae in tomato fruits, identify the species of emerging adult borers, and evaluate their developmental duration under laboratory conditions. Infested and healthy tomato fruits were collected from Yankaba Market and reared in controlled environments. A total of six tomato samples labeled A to F were used to assess larval load, while twenty-five replicates were used for the developmental study, with one larva introduced per tomato. Observational data such as temperature, larval length, number of days to pupation and adult emergence, and survival rates were recorded. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis (Chi-square test of Independence) were used to interpret results. Findings revealed that the Roma variety was significantly more susceptible to larval infestation (80%) than the Cherry variety. Six adult moth species were identified, with Helicoverpa armigera being the most dominant. The larval stage had a higher survival rate (58.06%) than the pupal stage (41.94%), and developmental periods varied across species. These results highlight the need for varietal selection and lifecycle-targeted pest control. It is recommended that farmers adopt resistant varieties like Cherry and implement timely control measures during the larval stage to minimize losses.

Akinsete Bolaji Hezekiah, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

Zoonotic diseases, transmissible from animals to humans, represent a significant public health threat, particularly in abattoir environments where close contact with livestock is routine. This study assessed the prevalence of four key zoonotic diseases—Bovine Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, Salmonellosis, and Cysticercosis—among animals slaughtered at the Kano State Central Abattoir. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving the collection and laboratory analysis of blood and tissue samples from 50 animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and camels. The results revealed Bovine Tuberculosis as the most prevalent infection (30%), followed by Brucellosis (26.7%), Salmonellosis (23.3%), and Cysticercosis (20%). Cattle accounted for the highest infection rates across all diseases, though infections were also detected in other species. The findings highlight serious gaps in abattoir hygiene, inspection practices, and worker awareness, all of which facilitate the persistence and transmission of zoonotic pathogens. The study recommends stricter veterinary oversight, improved sanitation protocols, and integrated One Health strategies to minimize public health risks associated with meat production in Nigeria.

Amina Kudu Mohammed, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

Dermestes maculatus are major insect pest of dried fish, causing significant loss in weight of fish and quality. This study was conducted at the department of Biological sciences, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, from December, 2025 to March, 2026 with the aim of investigating the efficacy of leaves of three plants (Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf), Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf), Cymbogon citratus (Lemon grass)) as extracts in their control. The mortality of adult Dermestes maculatus by Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were the three main objectives guiding this work. The leaf samples of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were collected around the residential areas of BUK old campus. The leaves were washed, air dried and macerated into powder which is then soaked in ethanol for 24 hours. The material is filtered and then evaporated. The resulting solution was used for bioassay at varying amounts to obtain different concentration. The insect first colony used for the experiment was obtained from a market in Gwale LGA of Kano and were identified using appropriate taxonomic keys. Adults from the colony were reared in kilner jars for two weeks and provided water soaked cotton wool to aid oviposition and newly emerged adults of new colony are obtained for the bioassay of the experiment. The results indicated that Cymbogon citratus evoked highest mean mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 10% after 96 hours and the lowest mean mortality (0.33±0.33) at 20% after 24 hours. The results also indicated that Verrnonia amygdalina recorded least mean mortality 0f (0.33±0.33) at 10% concentration after 48 hours, while the highest mortality for V. amygdalina was recorded at (1.67±0.33) at 20% after 96 hours. Ocimum gratissimum evoked least mean mortality of (0.33±0.00) at 5% after 72 hours and highest mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 20% after 96 hours. The results also indicated that the efficacy of the extracts was dose and time dependent. The study concludes that the extracts of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina are effective in the control of adult Dermestes maculatus. The study recommends further research to isolate active compounds from the plants in order to identify the bio agent for insecticidal activity, and developing them as biopesticides. The study also recommends the use of the plant extracts Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina of as biopesticides.