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Derris: A Natural Insecticide Source
Derris is a genus of climbing, leguminous plants primarily found in Southeast Asia and the southwest Pacific islands, including New Guinea.
Considerations for Pets
- Derris roots contain rotenone, a potent insecticide.
Considerations for Children
- Derris roots contain rotenone, a potent insecticide.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Derris
- Family: Leguminosae (Fabaceae)
- Major Group: Angiosperms (Flowering plants)
- Derris elliptica is a well-known species within this genus.
Distribution and Habitat
- Primarily found in Southeast Asia and the southwest Pacific islands, including New Guinea.
Uses and Properties
- Derris root is known to contain rotenone, a strong insecticide.
- Historically, Derris root has been used as a fish poison. Its insecticidal properties were recognized in China long before its isolation in 1895.
Morphological Characteristics
- Derris species include woody climbing plants and shrubs.
- Lianas: Bark maroonish, lenticellate, glabrous.
- Twigs: 3-5 mm diameter, slightly strigose or glabrescent, lenticellate.
- Stipules: Triangular, approximately 1.5 by 0.7-1 mm.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Used to control various garden pests like greenfly, blackfly, and sawfly.
- Different fractions of root and stem of Derris scandens demonstrated antibacterial (Escherichia coli, and Bacillus megaterium), antialgal (Chlorella fusca) properties.
Additional Resources
- Fact sheets are available detailing its distribution, uses as an insecticide, and role in the habitat in Singapore.