The effect of insecticides and airtight storage on the storability of cowpea in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

This experiment was carried out in Maiduguri (2005) to determine the period of airtight storage and pesticide/insecticide treatment that would best protect cowpea against the infestation of Callosobruchus maculatus. These periods of airtight storage condition 4, 6, and 8 weeks and 2 types of storage pesticides (Pepper powder, Phostoxin and a control) were factorially combined. Data were collected on weight loss, egg count, number of drilled seed (bored) germination percentage and number of dead insects. The number of bored seed was significantly (P ≤ 0.05). Phostoxin gave the best result followed by grounded pepper. Egg laid (oviposition) was not significantly (P ≤ 0.05) between ground pepper and control. While oviposition was lowest with Phostoxin, while egg laid was highest at 8 weeks but not significantly difference between 4 and 6 weeks. The highest insect count was recorded from no pesticide application, while Phostoxin gave the lowest insect count at 8 weeks followed by pepper at 8 weeks. The highest germination percentage was recorded from Phostoxin and not significantly difference between 6 and 8 weeks. The interaction of airtight condition and pesticide gave similar result. This means that the airtight storage and chemical treatment is very effective. The combination of airtight storage condition with or without suitable pesticide will effectively control Callosobruchus maculatus, in cowpea.