SUSHIL KUMAR
Abstract
The effect of sub lethal concentrations of three organophosphates (Dimethoate 30 EC, Malathion 50 EC and Quinalphos 35 EC) and one biopesticide (neem oil 25 EC) on the activity of digestive enzyme Amylase in foragers of Apis mellifera L was studied. The experiments were performed in laboratory conditions. The data obtained from treated groups of bees revealed that all the pesticides reduced the Amylase activity. The results suggested that organophosphates (Dimethoate, Malathion and Quinalphos) had great inhibitory action on amylase activity. Neem oil a biopesticide, showed insignificant inhibitory effect. The maximum inhibition was observed for Dimethoate followed by Malathion, Quinalphos, Neem oil.