Investigating the susceptibility to infestation of some newly introduced Ghanian maize varieties to Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)

Abstract

Seven newly introduced Ghanian maize varieties and 3 local varieties were analysed in the laboratory for susceptibility to infestation by the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais. Kawanzie was the least susceptible and Pool 16 SR the most susceptible. Gandajika 8149 and Dobidi did not differ significantly from Kawanzie for the susceptibility to infestation by S. zeamais. However, 3 local varieties (H o Local Two, H o Local One and Pokoase Local) were more susceptible to infestation than Kawanzie. Significant differences in susceptibility were not observed between Pool 16 SR and the 3 local varieties Composite 4, Aburotia CRI, and Dobidi. Seed viability declined as the number of adult emergence holes increased on the seeds. Fat, carbohydrate, phosphorus, iron, ash, calcium or protein contents of the grains of the different varieties studied had no significant correlation with susceptibility to S. zeamais