Integrated pest management

Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach to natural resources management based on a thorough knowledge of ecology and on diverse means of managing (without eradicating) arthropod and pathogen populations. In doing so, both the farmers' knowledge and modern scientific knowledge are powerful tools.

IPM research has been on ZIL's research agenda since 1997. Projects dealt with the root and tuber crops cassava and yam. IPM research on beans mainly focused on post-harvest management of storage pests.

Exploitation of Natural Resources for Food Security in Developing Countries

S. Dorn et al

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L., Fabaceae) are among the most important food legumes worldwide, providing one of the primary sources of dietary protein, particularly in developing countries. Stored legumes are endangered by bruchids (Coleoptera) throughout the tropical belt. Post-harvest losses are particularly critical, as all investments for growing the crop have already been made at this stage. An integrated pest management strategy for safe storage could generate a better income for small-scale farmers and reduce human mal- and under-nutrition. Details

Food chain legumes: combining optimised natural resources for safe storage and favourable food processing

S. Dorn et al

The purpose of this study is to elucidate optimal chemical and physical bean seed traits which, in conjunction with a parasitic wasp, suppress pest damage and allow for good food processing. This interdisciplinary project is expected to contribute to safe storage of beans which are endangered by bruchid pests such as Acanthoscelides obtectus throughout the tropic belt. Details

Genetic plant resources as a core element to safeguard bean harvest

S. Dorn et al

Mechanisms underlying host plant resistance in bean against the newly invaded pest Thrips palmi was investigated from the behavioural to the molecular level. Antixenosis, tolerance and antibiosis, singly or in combination, were found to be mechanisms underlying the host plant resistance. One major QTL (quantitative trait locus) and some minor QTLs on several linkage groups were identified. Details

Biocontrol of yams post-harvest rot

G. Defago, F. Mascher et al

Yams tubers are usually harvested once a year and have to be stored until consumption or re-planting. During storage, the tubers are frequently subject to microbial rots, which lead to severe losses of fresh product and reduces the income possibilities of the producers. In the present pilot project, the efficacy of palm wine for the control of the yams tuber rot during storage was evaluated in laboratory and field trials. Details