Effect of storage containers on infestation of split dried ginger rhizome by Stegobium paniceum (Coleoptera: Anobiidae)
DOI:10.36108/NJE/8991/51.0160
EMEHUTE, J. K. U
ABSTRACT
Three storage containers, polyethylene bag 130um, polyethylene bag 20um, thick and International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) brown paper sampling bag were evaluated for their effectiveness in protecting split dried ginger rhizome against a beetle borer, Stegobium paniceum L. After seven months of storage, ginger specimens stored in polyethylene bag 130um thick and IITA brown sampling bags remained better protected against infestation by S. paniceum. Weight loss observed was mostly due to S. paniceum feeding activities as only about 0.2% weight loss was due to natural drying of the specimens. Ginger powder obtained by milling the uninfested split dried ginger after seven months of storage retained desired culinary qualities. Split dried ginger rhizomes can therefore be stored in sealed polyethylene bags 130um thick, which are more durable and water resistant than IITA brown paper sampling bags.