Husk characteristics of maize conferring protection against Sitophilus zeamais

Abstract

Ear husk characteristics which may influence infestation by Sitophilus zeamais were investigated in four maize varieties; Gbogbe, NH2, Sekou 85 TZSR-W-1 and EV 8443-SR. Seven replicates were used for each variety consisting of 25 ears. An ear was confmed to 20 adult 0-1 week old weevils using three ear exposure methods; tip. base and complete ear, for 14 days. Of the different variables used to assess weevil behaviour and husk performance, number of weevils that penetrated maize ears, husk extension and compression, and number of husk leaves, were better indicators of good husk cover. The complete ear or ear tip could be exposed to weevils when screening maize for husk protection.