Biological methods of bruchid control in the Tropics: a review
1992
Huis, A. van (Wagenigen Agricultural University (Netherlands). Dept. of Entomology)
Bruchid beetles cause high losses of stored legumes in the tropics. Chemical control is inappropriate for the small scale farmer and the use of alternative measures should be encouraged. Different biological methods of control such as cultural, physical, varietal, biological, biorational and genetic control are reviewed. Cultural control techniques such as timely and frequent harvesting, legumes planted away from granaries, crop hygience and storage in pods, are within the technical and financial means of the small scale farmer. The use of inert substances, vegetable oils and repellent plants may be cheap and effective if properly managed. The use of controlled atmosphere, vacuum, heating, cooling and sterilizing, requires relatively advanced techniques. Growth regulators and pheromones are currently not available for control. Varieties resistant to bruchids have been identified, but incorporation of resistance into suitable varieties has proven to be difficult. Biological control of bruchids should receive more attention in particular research on the introduction and conservation of natural enemies. To effectively implement control measures at farmer's level socio-economic and cultural aspects should be taken into account. Proven appropriate techniques should be combined in an overall integrated pest management strategy
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