Question

State one indicator each for infestation by insects and rodents in stored food grains. Describe one method each for controlling the population of insects and rodents.

Answer 1

Infestation:

1. An infestation is an insect invasion of a structure, such as a house, or an insect attack on a plant.

Indicator each for infestation by insects:

1. Insect infestation is indicated by the presence of cocoons, webs, and weevilled grain.

Indicator each for infestation by Rodents:

1. Excreta and holes in the bags indicate rat infestation.

Method for controlling the population of insects:

1. Fumigation is a method of controlling insects in storage.
2. Fumigation, such as ethylene dibromide, is the most effective approach for controlling insects without harming the grains.
3. A particular number of EDB ampules wrapped in cloth are put a little below the surface of the grain and gently broken, depending on the number of grains to be fumigated.
4. For a week, the construction is left airtight and undisturbed.
5. Toxic gases spread across the room and destroy the insects.

Method for controlling the population of Rodents:

1. The most effective way to kill rodents is to use single or repeated doses of rodenticide.
2. In the right amounts, baits can be prepared by mixing grain flour with jaggery or sugar, edible oil, and a rodenticide, such as zinc phosphide.