Asian Journal of Biology

Rodent infestation inflicts damage on agricultural produce and also affects human health (spread of zoonotic diseases) and facilities. These combined effects necessitate effective and environmental friendly management practices and strategies. This study was carried out to assess the rodenticidal effect of powdered Datura metel seeds and its humaneness in Albino mice.

Forty-five albino mice were randomly allocated into three treatment groups including control and acclimatized for 7 days. They were fed with different treatment levels of commercial rat feed and powdered Datura metel seeds powder (100:0, 90:10, and 60:40). Their behavioral changes were examined, daily-feed-intake and body-weight measurement were recorded, blood samples were drawn from individual animals for evaluation of haematological and biochemical parameters, mortality rates were recorded. Tissue histopathology (kidney, liver and heart) were was done using standard method. Data were analysed in SPSS and mean separated using DMRT at α = 0.05.

The result showed no significant difference in the mean daily-feed-intake across the groups (p˃0.05). Mean body weight was significantly reduced compared to control (p˂0.05). All hematological parameters reduced significantly except red blood cell with no significant difference. The mean serum enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP) were significantly increased compared to control (p˂0.05). There was significant increase in K⁺, Cl^-, and HCO₃^- compared to control (3.47±0.06, 2.19±0.36; 62.87±0.84, 57.60±1.00; 26.93±0.81, 24.53±0.79) mmol/L, respectively. Internal organs examined revealed histopathological changes and alterations in their physiological functions were identified.

Conclusively, Datura metel seeds powder possess rodenticidal properties, indicating its potential as a natural rodent population control agent.