How to get rid of grain lice? - briefly
Store grain in airtight, low‑humidity containers and regularly inspect for signs of infestation; if pests are detected, apply a temperature shock—freeze at –20 °C for 48 hours or heat to 60 °C for 30 minutes—then use an approved residual insecticide for lingering individuals. Maintain cleanliness and rotate stock to prevent re‑colonization.
How to get rid of grain lice? - in detail
Grain lice infestations begin with adult insects laying eggs in stored kernels. Eggs hatch within a few days, and larvae feed on the grain, causing loss of quality and weight. Early detection prevents population explosions.
Inspect stored grain regularly. Look for small, reddish‑brown insects, powdery frass, and webbing on the surface. Use a 10‑liter sample, sift it through a fine mesh, and examine the residue under a magnifying lens. Record counts to assess infestation level.
Sanitation eliminates sources of reinfestation. Remove all debris, spilled grain, and dust from storage bins, silos, and processing equipment. Clean surfaces with a strong vacuum or compressed air, then wash with hot water and a detergent approved for food‑contact surfaces. Allow the area to dry completely before refilling.
Temperature control kills all life stages. Raise the grain temperature to 55 °C (131 °F) and hold for at least 30 minutes, or lower it to ‑18 °C (0 °F) and maintain for 72 hours. Both methods require uniform heating or cooling; use calibrated sensors to verify that the target temperature is reached throughout the mass.
Chemical treatments are effective when non‑chemical methods are insufficient. Apply a registered grain insecticide according to label directions, ensuring proper dosage and thorough mixing. Rotate active ingredients to avoid resistance. After application, monitor residue levels to comply with safety standards.
Physical powders such as diatomaceous earth provide a non‑toxic barrier. Distribute a thin layer (approximately 2 mm) over the grain surface; the abrasive particles damage the insect exoskeleton, leading to dehydration. Reapply after each handling event.
Biological control agents, like the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, infect and kill larvae and adults. Introduce the fungal spores in a carrier solution, following manufacturer recommendations for concentration and moisture content. Maintain humidity at 70 % to support fungal activity.
Preventive practices reduce future outbreaks. Store grain in airtight containers with moisture content below 13 % to inhibit development. Use pallets and raised platforms to keep kernels off the floor. Install insect‑proof seals on doors and ventilation openings. Rotate inventory regularly, moving older stock to the front.
Maintain a record‑keeping system that logs inspection dates, temperature treatments, chemical applications, and inventory turnover. Review the data monthly to identify trends and adjust management strategies accordingly. This systematic approach ensures long‑term protection against grain lice.