Maize is one of the main cereal crops in Bhutan. A total of 30, 939 MT of maize was harvested from 25,473 acres (NSB, 2021). The major maize growing Dzongkhags are Mongar, Pema Gatshel, and Trashigang (NSB, 2021). Other important cereal crops include paddy, wheat, barley, buckwheat, millet, and quinoa.
In Bhutan, maize is generally stored by hanging cobs under the roof (of the main house), above the fireplace, and in a separate custom built storage house. Maize growers store shelled maize in wooden boxes, plastic containers, and bags (jute bags or polypropylene bags ) that does not ensure protection against storage pests infestation. Furthermore, maize harvesting (July to August) coincides with the peak monsoon season, which hinders proper sun drying.
A survey conducted by NPPC in 2018 as part of the Maize TCP project funded by FAO revealed maize weevil, broad horned flour beetle, and Angoumois grain moth as the major storage pests (NPPC, 2018). These pests can cause significant losses in storage, especially at mid- to low-altitudes. Losses can be reduced through good management practices, and the adoption of appropriate technologies.
Insects
Angoumois grain moth
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Grain weevils
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Diseases
Refer to https://sawbo-animations.org/video.php?video=//www.youtube.com/embed/HXindhBQebI by SAWBO (Scientific Animations Without Borders).
