The natural environment as reservoir for the larger grain Prostephanus truncatus (Horn)(Coleoptera: Bostrichidae)in Kenya

Abstract

The Larger Grain Borer (LGB), Prostephanus truncatus (Horn), is anexotic pest of stored maize and cassava which first appeared in Kenyain 1983. Studies using pheromone traps show that LGB is widespread inthe natural vegetation in Tsavo National Park. Experiments to determinealternative hosts of the LGB have shown it capable of feeding andbreeding in 16 tree species in the families Leguminoseae, Burseraceaeand Anacardiaceae. Some of these species are of significance toagroforestry. Within a tree, breeding success of LGB is dependent uponthe wood's age, and its moisture content. The possible role ofalternative host plants in influencing LGB infestations in stored maizeis discussed.