Abstract
Morphological biomarkers can be used to establish a diagnosis of fly larvae structural damage and toxicity to target cells by biopesticide candidates. Insecticide activity of natural compounds such as Curcuma longa essential oil (CLLEO) extracted from leaves, and its major constituent α-phellandrene have proven to be a novel biopesticide candidate against third instar larvae (L3) of Cochliomyia macellaria. In this way, groups of 20 L3 were placed on filter paper impregnated with different concentrations of CLLEO, from 0.31 to 2.86 μL/cm(2) and α-phellandrene, from 0.29 to 1.47 μL/cm(2). The extracts were solubilized in ethanol. Data shown in this article is related to the research article "Can an overlooked by-product from turmeric industry be effective for myiasis control?" Chaaban et al., 2019. Data on L3 toxicity was observed after 6 and 24h of contact with both extracts, as well as a marked reduction of L3 movement, color changes in the cuticle and progressive darkening in their body. Major cuticle damage and L3 mortality were reported.