Development of the lesser grain borer, rhyzopertha dominica, in maize kernels as affected by site of larval entry
1982
OSUJI, FABIAN N.C.
Radiographic studies (X-ray) showed that larvae of the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica Fabricius, introduced into maize kernels through pre-drilled holes in the area of the germ developed much faster than those introduced into the endosperm, at the crown end. Last-instar larvae and pre-pupae were revealed on the radiographs 17-19 days after larval introduction in those that had germ end entry, as compared with 40-43 days in those that entered at the crown end. There was higher mortality for larvae that attempted entering whole, intact kernels than for those exposed to mechanically damaged, or broken ones. Larvae easily entered and developed in kernels split vertically down the middle. In kernels split transversely in the middle above the germ, entry was less successful and development slower in the crown half than in the germ half.
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