Evaluation of Hermetic Storage Technique for the Management of Lasioderma serricorne in Turmeric Rhizomes

Abstract

A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of various storage bags on the adult emergence of pests, moisture content, and weight loss in turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomes over a six-month storage period conducted at Department of Entomology, Agricultural College, Bapatla, during the academic year 2023-24. Five types of storage bags were assessed: Super bag, Triple layer polythene bag, Jute lined polythene bag, Jute bag, and Cloth bag. Results revealed that turmeric stored in Super bags exhibited zero adult emergence throughout the entire storage duration, significantly outperforming all other bag types. Minimal adult emergence was recorded in Triple layer polythene and Jute lined polythene bags, while Cloth bags recorded the highest pest infestation, with 134 adults at three months and 130.5 at six months after storage. Moisture content remained stable in Super bags (0.07%), while a noticeable increase was observed in Cloth (0.09% to 0.14%) and Jute bags (0.08% to 0.12%). Correspondingly, weight loss was negligible in Super and polythene bags but increased markedly in Cloth bags (0.88% to 9.23%) and Jute bags (0.67% to 6.76%) over time. From the results it is clear that Super bags offer good protection against the insect pest infestation with zero per cent weight loss and they can be recommended for farmer’s practice, for storage of turmeric rhizomes.