Surveillance and Control of Pests in Stored Sugarcane Products

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to establish efficient detection systems for pests in sugarcane storage facilities and to assess the efficacy of various pest control methods, ensuring product quality and consumer safety. Methods: Three major sugarcane-producing regions in District Dera Ismail Khan were selected, with samples taken from five storage facilities in each region. Monthly sampling, spanning a year, included manual inspections, use of pheromone traps, and remote sensing devices. Pest control methods evaluated encompassed chemical, biological, and physical controls. Results: Pests displayed distinct preference habitats within storage facilities. Chemical control demonstrated the highest efficacy with a 66.7% reduction in pest population, followed by biological and physical controls. Environmental factors, notably temperature (r=0.8) and humidity (r=0.65), showed significant positive correlations with infestation rates. Storage duration displayed a reduced positive correlation with infestations. Conclusion: Effective pest management necessitates an understanding of pest behavior and an integrated approach combining various control methods. Environmental factors play a pivotal role in infestation rates, emphasizing the importance of controlled storage conditions.