author(s)
Danjumma BJ, Majeed Q and Ibrahim ND

abstract
This present study investigated the efficacy of Acacia. Nilotica, Balanite. Aegyptiaca, and Citrus aurantifolia, ground leaf powders as grain protectants against Sitophilus zeamais in stored maize, in Usmanu danfodiyo university sokoto, Nigeria. Effect of leaf powders were evaluated on percent weight loss of grain, percent germination, insect infestation, grain colour and odour over 180 days (≈six months) duration. Leaf powders (2, 4 and 6 g/kg), synthetic pesticide (Actellic, pirimiphos methyl (0.5 g/kg)) and anuntreated control were used as treatments. All plant powders significantly minimized grain damage and infestation 96 days post treatment (≈three months) and had no effect on percent germination of maize grains when compared to controls. Grain colour and odour were not affected by plant powders after six months of storage. All plant significantly reduce grain damage and insect infestation with no adverse effects on seed germination, colour and odour hence can be used as sustainable alternatives to synthetic insecticides in maize storage especially by small holder farmers.