A SURVEY OF PESTS OF STORED CEREAL PRODUCTS IN MAKURDI

ABSTRACT A survey of pest of stored cereal products in 2024 in four (4) major markets (Modern Market, North Bank, Wadata and Wurukum markets respectively), by Ezeani Isaac Onuagruchi with a matriculation number of BSU/SC/BIO/18/49487. The aim of the study was to survey pest of stored cereal in Makurdi. Sample collected was done by hand picking from various markets, analysed by Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 which is a computer software programme presented in tables and charts. Percentage frequency was checked under chi-square. 702 insects were collected as part of the insect pests attacking stored products in Makurdi and this was done by hand-picking the insect pest and putting into well labeled specimen container and taken to the Zoology Laboratory, Benue State University, Makurdi for sorting and identification; a great high percentage of insect pests (35.2%) were recovered from stored products in Wurukum market, while the least number of insect pests of stored products, (19.0%) were recovered from North Bank market in Makurdi. The incidence of damaged stored products revealed that, beans recorded higher incidences in all the stores visited in different markets. In North Bank market, beans recorded incidence of (3.6%) while millet and maize products recorded incidence of (1.2%) each. In Wadata market, beans also recorded a higher incidence (4.5%) while maize recorded the least incidence (2.5%) of damaged stored products in that location. In Wurukum market, where beans, millet and maize were stored, beans recorded a higher incidence of (1.6%) followed by maize with (1.3%) and the least incidence (1.1%) was recorded in millet. Lastly, in Modern market, bean products recorded a higher incidence (3.4%) compared to millet with (2.1%) incidence of damaged crops. The study revealed the level of pest infestation of stored products in Makurdi. A large number of insects pest were collected from the various stores visited from selected locations. Different species of pest that attack different kinds of stored products indicated that beans crops stored are mostly attacked cowpea weevil (Collosobruchus maculatus), millet is attacked by lesser grain borer Rhyzopertha dominica) and corn by wheat weevil (Sitophilus granarius). Based on findings, it was recommended that, more pest control methods of stored products should be investigated in Makurdi.