Investigation of antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say, 1824 (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Cappadocia Region, Nevşehir province

The search for new and effective antimicrobial agents has become more important due to the increase in drug-resistant bacterial strains. Nature has been a valuable source of bioactive compounds, and insects have gained attention for their potential therapeutic properties. Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say, 1824, commonly known as the Colorado potato beetle, is an insect belonging to the family Chrysomelidae. L. decemlineta is known for its destructive effects on potato crops, but it also possesses intriguing biological characteristics that attract scientific interest. L. decemlineata, with its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions and resist microbial attack, offers a unique opportunity to investigate the presence of bioactive substances in its system that may combat bacterial infections and oxidative stress-related disorders. This research aimed to explore the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of two different extracts of Leptinotarsa decemlineata: LDME (methanol extract) and LDEE (ethanol extract). This study includes the evaluation of the biological activities of Leptinotarsa decemlineata by performing disc diffusion test, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test and antioxidant activity studies. Both LDME and LDEE were found to have antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria, with varying degrees of effectiveness. It highlighted the possibility of using L. decemlineata as a natural alternative to synthetic antibacterial and antioxidant agents resulting in fewer side effects and be more environmentally friendly. However, further research is required to determine their effectiveness in vivo and against a wider range of bacteria.