Effect Of Citrus Sinensis, C. Aurantifolia Powder And Aluminium Phosphide In The Management Of Oryzae Philusmercator Fauval Stored Insect Pests Of Dika Nut (Irvingia Gabonensis)

Oryzaephiusmeccator Fauval commonly known as merchant grain beetle is often found infecting stored dika nut (Irvingiagabonensis). This study was conducted to proffer safe, environmentally friendly, cheap and affordable solution to the infestation by comparing the effect of orange peel (Citrussinensis), lime peel (Citrusaurantifolia) powders and aluminum phosphide on the storage parameters. Experiment was set up at the Faculty of Agriculture Central Laboratory, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, KwaraState, Nigeria in a Completely Randomized Design, each treatment was replicated three times and powders. Data was collected on the following parameters; adult mortality, oviposition, larval emergence and weight loss. Statistical analysis using ANOVA at a 5% significance level revels significant differences between the plant product treatments and the chemical control all through the 6 weeks experiment. It is concluded that the botanicals at the rate of 7.5g is more effective on adult morality at 6 weeks after infestation (1.33) and (0.33), oviposition. It is recommended that the botanicals at high rate should be used in the management of insect pest of stored dika nut, for a more healthy, friendly environment and enhance food security.