The natural Environment as a Reservoir for the larger Grain Borer Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) in Kenya

The Larger Grain Borer (LGB), Prostephanus truncatus (Horn), is an exotic pest of stored maize and cassava which first appeared in Kenya in 1983. Studies using pheromone traps show that LGB is widespread in the natural vegetation in Tsavo National Park. Experiments to determine alternative hosts of...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inAfrican crop science journal Vol. 1; no. 1
Main Authors Nang'Ayo, F.L.O, Hill, M.G, Chandi, E.A, Chiro, C.T, Nzeve, D.N, Obiero, J
Format Journal Article
Published Uganda African Crop Science Society 09.02.2009
Subjects
agroforestry
Bostrichidae
Maize
stored products pest
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Summary:The Larger Grain Borer (LGB), Prostephanus truncatus (Horn), is an exotic pest of stored maize and cassava which first appeared in Kenya in 1983. Studies using pheromone traps show that LGB is widespread in the natural vegetation in Tsavo National Park. Experiments to determine alternative hosts of the LGB have shown it capable of feeding and breeding in 16 tree species in the families Leguminoseae, Burseraceae and Anacardiaceae. Some of these species are of significance to agroforestry. Within a tree, breeding success of LGB is dependent upon the wood's age, and its moisture content. The possible role of alternative host plants in influencing LGB infestations in stored maize is discussed.
ISSN:1021-9730
2072-6589