The influence of dietary?-carboline alkaloids on growth rate, food consumption, and food utilization of larvae ofSpodoptera exigua (Hubner)

Abstract
β-Carboline alkaloids are found worldwide in many plant families. Harman, harmine, and other simple β-carboline alkaloids were tested for activity against a generalist phytophagous insect, the beet army worm [Spodoptera exigua (Hubner)]. Chronic dietary exposure tests (neonate to pupa) reveal potent antifeedant and possible toxic effects. Acute dietary exposure tests on fifth-instar larvae also demonstrate antifeedant activity.