A survey of systems of grain storage and management of insect pests in stored grain in Kebbi state

Abstract

Grain storage losses due to insect pests threaten the livelihood of small-scale farmers in Kebbi state. The farmers various methods of grain protection are in adequate in providing good protection from pest damage, however, when improved might provide a better protection. A survey of 240 famers was conducted in three regions (Central, North and South) of Kebbi state to increase understanding of various methods employ by farmers to protect their important grain from damage by insect pests. Of all the grain, sorghum was stored in greater quantity (4,000 kilos/household, p<0.001) than other grains and a majority in south Kebbi stored sorghum threshed (p<0.001), even though this form is more vulnerable to infestation. The methods of storage practice by the respondents varied between the regions which affect the types of insects found. Tribolium castaneum and Rhyzopertha dominica were found as the major pest mentioned by almost all respondents in all the regions. Over 40% of the respondents from both north and central, and 20% from the South regions used synthetic pesticide as control measures. Over 30% of respondents from the South and 12% and 17% from the North and Central regions respectively use pesticidal plants, where Ocimum basilicum was the most frequently mentioned. That farmers use pesticidal plants indicates the prospect for improving pesticidal plants. This study highlights opportunity for improving and enhancing the value of pesticidal plant for use as grain protectants for small-scale farmers.