. Agri-news. Agriculture. December 9,1991 Stored grain insect alert Stored grain insects aren't a major problem in Alberta right now, but increased infestations elsewhere on the Prairies should alert farmers here to look at their grain says an Aiberta Agriculture specialist. "Infestations are up about one-third in the West this year," says Mike Dolinski, head of entomology and rat control in the crop protection branch. "At this time, we're suggesting Alberta grain producers be aware of the incidence of stored grain insects and check their grain ; The Canadian Grai
. Agri-news. Agriculture. December 9,1991 Stored grain insect alert Stored grain insects aren't a major problem in Alberta right now, but increased infestations elsewhere on the Prairies should alert farmers here to look at their grain says an Aiberta Agriculture specialist. "Infestations are up about one-third in the West this year," says Mike Dolinski, head of entomology and rat control in the crop protection branch. "At this time, we're suggesting Alberta grain producers be aware of the incidence of stored grain insects and check their grain ; The Canadian Grain Commission reports Alberta infestations are about average so far this year, while figures are up for Saskatchewan and Manitoba grain. The most prevalent pest on the Prairies is the flat rusty grain beetle, a reddish brown insect with long, threadlike antennae. Adults, at 2 mm in length, are visible, however, their worm-like cream colored larvae are almost impossible to detect without special equipment. A wide variety of other beetles, weevils, moths, mites and molds can infest stored grain. Chris Van Natto, the commission's entomologist, says producers who store their grain for long periods in poorly equipped bins or tanks, or who leave grain piled in a field may unknowingly create a major infestation. While prevention is easier and less costly than treatment, at this time of the season producers can only detect and eliminate any infestations he says. Because the insects are so small, they are difficult to see, so producers have to look for other signs such as hollowed out grain kernels or kernels lacking a germ end. Bin "hot spots" also indicate problems. High grain temperatures attract insects and infestations can cause grain to heat. If producers suspect an infestation, but can't find any insects or can't identify them, they can send a grain sample to the commission for a free test notes Van Natto. A one kilogram sample in a well-sealed plastic bag can be sent to
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