Economic feasibility of replacing chemical insecticides with weaver ant strategies for citrus pest management in Handeni District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study assesses the effectiveness and economic feasibility of transitioning from chemical insecticides to biological pest control using weaver ants (Oecophylla longinoda) in citrus orchards in Handeni District, Tanzania. Conducted over two growing seasons, the on-farm experiment involved 20 smallholder farmers, using a Randomized Complete Block Design to compare weaver ant-based control and chemical insecticides treatments. Data on costs, yields, and fruit prices were analyzed using Gross Margin Analysis and Benefit-Cost Ratio. Results indicates that weaver ant-based pest control significantly reduced costs and increased yields, while citrus from these orchards achieved higher market prices due to consumer preference for pesticide-free produce. Beyond economic gains, this approach reduces chemical pesticide use, environmental protection and public health benefits. The study demonstrates that weaver ants-based biological control is a sustainable, cost-effective, and regionally relevant alternative to chemical insecticides, supporting eco-friendly pest management strategies in sub-Saharan Africa.