IPM for Brazil's wheat silos
Date:06-05-2008
Brazilian researchers propose the use of an IPM system to protect grain in silos. As much as 10% of wheat stored in silos is being lost to insects and other pests, according to the Brazilian agricultural wheat research corporation, the Embrapa Trigo. That could result in annual losses of up to R$1,400 million ($838.5 million). The damage can result from several factors, such as the incorrect use of pesticides. The corporation has proposed the system, MIP Graos, of cleaning and monitoring the stored grain, creating a poor environment for the presence of insects. Agriculture Canada’s Paul Fields reportedly says that Brazil has the perfect environment for food production and the breeding of pests. The ideal temperature for insects in storage is 33˚ C and 70% humidity. He advocates the Australian policy of heating the grain to 60˚ C in one minute to kill the pests.
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