Abstract
The efficacy of microwave power (MP) (110, 220, and 440 W) for five exposure times against different stages of Sitotroga cerealella was assessed. Mortality percentage of life stages, adult emergence, and chemical components in wheat grains were evaluated. Complete egg mortality (100%) was achieved with 440 W and an exposure time of 270 sec. Larvae and pupae were affected by increasing MP, resulting in a reduction in adult emergence. Furthermore, full mortality of adults increased with longer exposure periods to MP, reaching 100% 3 days after treatment with 110 W of MP and exposure times of 150, 210, and 270 sec. Complete adult mortality was achieved 2 days after treatment with 220 W and exposure times of 210 and 270 sec, and 1 day after treatment with 440 W and exposure times of 150, 210, and 270 sec. Moreover, MP caused a slight reduction in the chemical components of wheat grains except for fibre content. These findings suggest that MP may be a useful method for the management of S. cerealella.