The major stored-food pests

Most damage in stores is caused by insects a few millimetres in size such as Sitophilus species, the Larger grain borer, grain moths and several others. The illustration below shows enlargements of the most common pest species, as well as the beneficial species Teretriosoma nigrescens. These stored-food pests can cause reductions in quality, as well as considerable weight losses,

the animals incapable of movement. The combination factors prevents propagation and development, and destroys adult pests.

Alternative dusting preparations

Similar effects are also elicited by other dusts. These include first and foremost ash, but also laterite dust clay dust or very fine sand The quantites commonly applied vary considerably, and can reach up to 50 percent by volume. Depending on the type of dust however, it is also possible to achieve an acceptable protective effect with considerably smaller quantities. The appropriate dose can be determined locally by performing small experiments.

Surveillance of the store

When the products have been stored, work is still not complete. The store must be checked at weekly internals in order to detect any damage or infestation in good time In this connection, special attention should be paid to the following factors:

1. condition of the store (stability, protection against rain)
2. cleanliness of the store's surroundings .
3. mould
4. pest infestation

Minor damage to the store, e.g. holes in the roof should be repaired immediately. Remove any tall grass, bushes or refuse close to the store as these offer protection to rodents. If mould develops, dry the products immediately. At the first sign of pest infestation, market or process the maize if possibly immediately.