Sampling methods for insect pests in wheat grains stored in bulk

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this work was to compare methods of sampling insect pests in wheat (Triticum aestivum) grains stored in bulk. The data were collected in three agricultural seasons (2012, 2016, and 2020), 90 days after phosphine fumigation, in 10 replicates. Three treatments were evaluated: pitfall traps, manual probe, and pneumatic probe. During the entire evaluation period, the manual probe showed an inferior performance in sampling live insect pests. The pneumatic probe is more efficient for the collection of maize weevils (Sitophilus zeamais), and the pitfall trap, for capturing the rusty grain beetle (Cryptolestes ferrugineus).

Keywords

• Cryptolestes ferrugineus
• Sitophilus zeamais
• Triticum aestivum
• trap