Field Management, Storage Structure, Nanoparticles and Maize Weevil Pest: Important Considerations in the Sustainable Production of Maize Grains | Chapter 9 | New Perspectives in Agriculture and Crop Science Vol. 2

In the field, maize (Zea mays L.) should be grown in line with basic requirements for optimum performance and productivity. In postharvest entomology of maize (important in food security) for enhanced sustainability, the fundamental knowledge of storage structures and nanoparticles is very important because both storage technology and chemical constituents of grains have great influence on physiological activities of stored-product arthropod pests. It is possible to influence biological activities of the weevil insect because interactions of chemical constituents of grain with environmental variables of weather (temperature and relative humidity), moisture and gas are unequivocally possible too. Nanoparticles of maize grain have important associations with grain resistance to insect pest infestations and invariably, matter in the sustainable production of maize. Holistically, extent of field management of the crop, choice of storage structures, concentration and type of nanoparticles contained by a variety and the maize weevil pest, Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky are strong determinants to sustainable maize production. To ensure sustainability, the farmer must manipulate and integrate these important factors to his favour. Insects are known to be lovers of protein, starch, minerals and some other intrinsic particles. Thus, the cultivation of a variety of maize with high amount of cherisable nanoparticles by the maize weevil insect will require more efficient storage technology against infestation and damage by the maize weevil pest. This constitutes an important recommendation for farmers seeking sustainability in maize production.

Author (s) Details

Dr. Luke Chinaru Nwosu
Department of Crop and Soil Science, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Dr. Victor Chijioke Okereke
Department of Crop and Soil Science, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Dr. Olutayo Modupeola Adedokun
Department of Crop and Soil Science, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Mr. Uwaoma Otuodichinma Aguwa
Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.

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