Green nanoparticles application in the management of stored grain pests, Tribolium sp.

Abstract

Globally, the stored grain insects severely damage grains of food and storage products. One of the primary stored insect pests is Tribolium castaneum, which is being controlled by using synthetic insecticides. The synthetic insecticides despite being effective, have many disadvantages, such as costly, non-biodegradable and negative impact on the environment. Thus, the farmers and storage house managers- look for potent and financially viable solution to reduce the economic and environmental negative impacts. One the most promising alternatives is the usage of green nanoparticles which have been recently extensively studied for their insecticidal properties against both stored grain pests and agricultural crop pests. Apart from the silver nanoparticles a variety of other nanoparticles are being used for the control of stored grain pest, including silicon dioxide, diatomaceous earth, aluminium, silver, zinc oxide, essential oil nanoparticles, and nano silica particles. In conclusion, our review suggests that silver nanoparticles have the potential of strong contender in the search for a replacement of existing insecticidal use to control the harm caused by stored grain pest.