Diversity of Insect Pest on Stored Grains from Keffi Old Market in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State

Abstract

In Nigeria, grain losses from insect pests can reach 20-30%, threatening food security and perpetuating poverty. Traditional chemical insecticides are unatainable for many farmers due to cost and health risks. This study investigates the extent and impact of insect pest infestations on stored grains in the Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The primary objective is to understand the diversity and prevalence of these pests to inform better storage practices and pest management strategies. Data collected from 50 grain sellers and grain samples from 10 stores identified 527 insect pests across 12 genera and 9 families, with the most dominant species being Sitophilus sp., Tribolium sp., Oryzaephilus sp., Acanthoscelides sp., Trogoderma sp., Rhyzopertha sp., and Tenebroides sp. Notably, the Curculionidae family exhibited the highest abundance with 255 individuals (43.81%), followed by Tenebrionidae with 113 individuals (19.42%), and Silvanidae with 61 individuals (10.48%). The order Coleoptera accounted for 94.50% of the total insects found. Store 3 exhibited the highest infestation rate at 41.7% of the total insects collected, indicating variability in storage conditions. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index showed a low diversity (H' = +2.1285) of arthropod pests, with Sitophilus sp particularly in maize and sorghum grains, demonstrating significant diversity and prevalence. The study emphasize the importance of proper grain processing, frequent sun drying, and enhanced awareness of effective storage practices to reduce pest infestations. By identifying key pest species and understanding their impact on grain quality, the research supports the development of specific pest management strategies contributing to improved storage practices, food security, and farmer incomes.