The Potential of Some Plant Powders as Biopesticides against <>Sitophilus Zeamais (Motsch.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) On Stored Grains: A Review

Abstract

Powders prepared from parts of different plant species indigenous to Nigeria were tested by various Nigerian scientists under laboratory conditions for their insecticidal activities against the common insect pests of maize and cowpea, i.e. Sitophilus zeamais and Callosobruchus maculatus during storage. Results showed that at certain concentrations, the plant materials had both ovicidal and larvicidal effects. They also reduced adult emergence, progeny development and increased mortality of the adults. Some have anti-feedant effects on the insect pests. Looking into the side effects of synthetic pesticides, the studies demonstrated that these plant parts can play an important role in protection of stored grains from insect invasion during storage.

Key words: Biopesticides, Callosobruchus maculatus, Plant powders, Sitophilus zeamais Stored grains