<i>Broussonetia papyrifera</i> Extract Can Be Used as a Raw Material Source for a Sterility Agent for <i>Microtus fortis</i>

Plant sterilants are used to control rodent populations due to their minimal environmental risk and other ethical considerations. However, their practical utilization is unsatisfactory due to high costs and processing difficulties. <i>Broussonetia papyrifera</i> is a plant material that...

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Main Authors: Shuangye Wang, Tian Lan, Yunlin Zhao, Wanfu Liu, Tian Huang, Meiwen Zhang, Zhiyuan Hu, Zhenggang Xu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Biology
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2079-7737/14/1/56
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Summary:Plant sterilants are used to control rodent populations due to their minimal environmental risk and other ethical considerations. However, their practical utilization is unsatisfactory due to high costs and processing difficulties. <i>Broussonetia papyrifera</i> is a plant material that has shown the potential to inhibit the reproduction of <i>Microtus fortis</i>, a species that causes serious damage to crops in the Dongting Lake region in China. <i>M. fortis</i> was treated with different doses of <i>B. papyrifera</i> leaf methanol extracts. The results show that the growth of sex organs was inhibited, and the males’ testosterone levels and sperm quality were reduced. Though there were some positive effects on females, the reproductive parameters of coupled voles were inferior; the most treated couple exhibited an increased reproductive time, fetal counts, and reduced weight. It was also found that <i>M. fortis</i> responded negatively to the extract after a single treatment or long-term repeated treatment compared to a short-term repeated treatment. <i>B. papyrifera</i> leaves showed a higher application potential as a sterilant for male rodents. These findings enrich the study of plant sterilants and provide insights into the utilization of <i>B. papyrifera</i> and the management of rodents. Owing to the effectiveness and accessibility of the leaves, the derived sterilant may be more economical for controlling rodent pests.
ISSN:2079-7737