Evaluation of kerosene for the control of Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) and Sitophilus zeamais (L.) on stored cowpea and maize seeds

English

Kerosene was evaluated in the laboratory as a protectant of stored cowpea and maize seeds against infestation by Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) and Sitophilus zeamais L., respectively. The kerosene was applied at the rate of 5 and 10 ml kg-I of cowpea and maize seeds. The results showed that it significantly (P<0.05) reduced oviposition and progeny emergence of C. maculatus and S. zeamais. In addition, kerosene significantly •(P<0.05) depressed the development of S. zeamais and, consequently, reduced the mean percentage weight loss in maize. Although kerosene reduced oviposition and progeny emergence in both insects, even at the low dosage of 5 ml kg-I it did not adversely affect the viability of both seeds after 6 months' storage. Kerosene seems to be a good substance for protecting stored cowpea and maize seeds against C. maculatus and S. zeamais. Therefore, peasant farmers could be encouraged to use il to store seeds of these two crops.

Osekre, E. A.; Opoku-Agyeman, M.