Control Strategy of Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle, Oryzaephilus Surinamensis(L. 1758)Through A Methyl Bromide Gas Fumigation System on Date Fruits

Abstract

The application of fumigant Methyl bromide gas on counted (n=20) bags kept under godowns located at Khajoor and Chhuhara mandi region, Sukkur on Aseel semi-dry and dry dates were kept under observation. The (03) treatments were replicated (03) times. The population reduction % data was recorded on the 2^nd, 3^rd, and 5^th day with the dose after application of 100g, 200g, and 300g, in each treatment. The overall maximum reduction % on Aseel semi-dry dates was recorded at 43.25, 38.90, 35.40 in the first year and 63.55, 56.80, 41.55 in the second year of the study. The maximum reduction % observed in the first year than the second year of the observation. Similarly, the reduction % on Aseel dry dates counted at 58.45, 53.20, 44.65 in 1^st year and 55.30, 42.45, 40.20 in 2^nd year research studies, respectively. It is concluded that the O. surinamensis is a destructive insect pest. In Pakistan, it is strictly needed for the management of this pest to protect the highly valuable and commercial date palm industry against insect pest havoc. This study suggests that due to the wide use of insecticides, we are unable to export. Therefore, we should have to introduce eco-friendly control measures against the saw-toothed grain beetle, due to this we will not only save our date fruits from pest infestation but also save the quality and quantity of date fruit. In this context, the IPM techniques and laboratory-based scientific study would be an authentic and supportable tool for date fruit protection.