Stored grain – Pests of Bhutan

Grains (mainly rice and maize) are mostly grown for self consumption and domestic sale. Export is minor: 7 MT of rice in 2014 (compared to 79,406 MT imported), 5,728 MT of wheat and barley (compared to 23,264 MT imported) and 1 MT of other cereals (compared to 72 MT imported).

Rice is generally stored and transported in bags. Maize is mostly stored on the cob.

Losses to stored grain pests can be considerable, especially at mid to low altitudes. There are many different types of stored grain pests in Bhutan, but of particular significance are grain weevils and the grain moth. Losses can be kept to a minimum through good management practices, and the adoption of appropriate technologies.