Perceptions of traders and characterization of insect pests during the conservation of maize grains (Zea mays L.) in southern Benin

Abstract

Maize is one of the most important cereals which helps maintain food security. This study aims to characterize the insects during maize gram storage to ensure food security. Then, a questionnaire was administered to 100 traders randomly selected from 10 markets at Cotonou and Abomey-Calavi. Samples were collected and analyzed at the Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Environmental Stress Study to characterize insect species and assess their impact on grain quality and quantity. Survey results show all traders (100 %) experience huge losses due to insects during conservation. However, three methods of control have been recorded, namely the use of pesticides (28 %), good drying before storage (54 %), and the use of inert plants and materials such as neem, dry pepper, and ash (18 %). Two insects recognized by traders were identified in the laboratory, Sitophilus zeamais and Tribolium confusum. However, white maize is more contaminated with Sitophilus zeamais according to 56 % of respondents, while yellow maize is mainly contaminated with Tribolium confusum (20%). Despite this short shelf life, these beetle insects caused grain weight losses of up to 34.48 %. Further work would therefore be needed to broaden the study area for full characterization of these pests.