Potentials of Two Indigenous Plants Powder for the Control of Stored Maize Weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky)

Abstract

Potentials of two indigenous plants powder derived from Acmella oleracea, Linn and Lantana camara, Linn were evaluated in the laboratory at ambient temperature and relative humidity (28±20C; 75±5% RH) for the control of stored maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch). Powders obtained from air-dried flower heads of A. oleracea and leaves of L. camara were tested at 1, 3 and 5% (w/w) concentrations. Parameters assessed were effect of plant powders on weevil mortality (toxicity test), adult emergence (oviposition deterrence test) and germination (viability test) of seeds after storage. Results showed that the 3% and 5% plant powders significantly (p<0.05) increased weevils cumulative mortality and suppressed adult emergence compared to 1% powders and controls. The result also revealed that the efficacy of these plant powders on the weevils was dose-dependent with higher doses providing greater protection of the maize grains. Seeds viability test revealed that powder treatments had no deleterious effects on the germination potential of treated maize. The multiple insecticidal effects of these plant powders and their potential for local availability make them attractive candidates in upgrading traditional post-harvest protection practices. The outcome of this study is encouraging and a possible means of ensuring a steady supply of good quality maize grains.