Insect-pest of stored grains and their management

摘要

Almost all the insect pest of stored grains have a remarkably high rate of multiplication and they destroy 10-15 percent of grains and contaminate the rest with undesirable odour. The grains having less than 10 percent moisture is considered safe for storage. At the time of harvesting grains are almost free from infestations of insects. The godowns already infested with insects or the infested gunny bags or receptacles are the source of infestations for fresh produce. The godowns which are empty atthe time of storage of fresh harvest, might have numerous insects hidden in cracks and crevices. The insects are not visible and an experienced person can notice them by careful examination. The product like cereals and pulses from a staple diet for Indian and they have to be stored by the producers in their home and by the traders and the govt, agencies in godowns for one year or more. After harvesting the grains are supposed to be dried until their moisture content is less than 9 percent (ideal for storage). The grains absorbs moisture from the damp godowns, improper receptacles and from uncertain weather sometimes. For rapid multiplication of insect, warm and humid climate and high moisture content of the grains are highly congenial.