Identificación de los insectos que afectan la post-cosecha del trigo Triticum aestivum, en los silos de una empresa ubicada en el cantón Manta-Manabí

Abstract

Grains are essential foods in the daily human diet due to their nutrient content. Among the most important are corn, beans, wheat and rice. With specific reference to wheat, different varieties are produced in the world. Losses due to insect attacks on stored grains are considerable in the world, this is aggravated in tropical countries, because the temperature favors the development of insects. This work aimed to taxonomically identify the main species of insects that affect the post-harvest of wheat through different trapping methods. Samples were collected every 7 days, over a period of six months, between August 2023 - February 2024, at the facilities of the CorSperior company in Manta and in conjunction with the laboratory of the Phyto and Zoosanitary Regulation and Control Agency - AGROCALIDAD of Manta, taking into account the type of trap and its location; the traps used were: DOMO, yellow chromatic traps (panels), McPhail trap, and homemade traps. The number of species per test, number of insects per trap, and trap effectiveness were counted. These results contribute to the knowledge of the taxonomy associated with insect pests that affect grain storage. Liposcelis bostrychophilus is the most abundant species, followed by Tribolium castaneum, which is the main pest causing damage to grain storage. Homemade traps were the most effective traps due to their high performance in capturing insects.