Think about Stored Grain Pests Before Harvest

Abstract

<p>Stored grain insect pests are an economic concern in Iowa. Growers should think about taking preventative measures now – before harvest – to protect grain quality. Infestations can directly reduce grain weight and nutritional value, in addition to indirectly causing mold and other contaminations. Primary stored grain pests feed within intact kernels while secondary pests feed on broken kernels or grain dust. Examples of primary pests include rice weevil, granary weevil and maize weevil. Common secondary pests are red and confused flour beetles, sawtoothed grain beetle, and Indianmeal moth. Integrated pest management (IPM) of stored grain pests should be implemented to increase overall profit.</p>