A laboratory experiment was carried out to determine the response of six groundnut varieties to infestation by larvae of Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) and their nutritional constituents. The improved groundnut varieties used included SAMNUT 10, RMP-91, SAMNUT 19, SAMNUT 23, EX-DAKAR and RRB. The crude fat content varied significantly among the varieties from 32.7% to 53.1% in EX-DAKAR and RRB, respectively. The seed varieties were not significantly different in crude protein, ash and moisture content. The moisture content ranged between 6.6% and 8.9% in EX-DAKAR and SAMNUT 19 varieties, respectively. The crude protein content ranged between 19.7% and 31.3% in SAMNUT 19 and EX-DAKAR, respectively. The ash content varied between 3.0% and 7.4% in RRB and RMP-91 varieties, respectively. The results showed that the seeds were attacked by the 4th instar larvae of T. granarium as indicated by percentage seed weight damage, seed weight loss and dust production. SAMNUT 10 variety had the least seed damage of 33.1%, 41.4% and 43.7% in 1 month, 2 and 3 months post-infestation. In view of the damage, it was evident that SAMNUT 10 variety had the least percent seed damage and loss suggesting the possible inclusion of the variety in breeding programme against the insect pest.
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