Solar Treating of Cowpea Seeds

Cowpea bruchids (Callosobruchus maculatus) are pests that cause damage to stored cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) seeds. They are described as the most damaging pest of cowpea seeds. The damage caused by these pests is sometimes devastating to cowpea farmers, sellers, and consumers as they put seeds in very bad condition, which eventually results in great postharvest losses.

It is a general problem encountered by cowpea farmers, traders, and consumers. This is why we will be looking at solar treating of cowpea seeds, and I will share an animation video from the SAWBO team that will better illustrate this easy and cheap technique. So, whether you are a cowpea farmer, trader or consumer, this article is for you . It will help to preserve your seeds if you follow the steps I am about to introduce to you, especially as we are approaching the harvest season.

Cowpea bruchids are major pests of cowpeas, pigeon peas, soybeans, lentils, etc., which begin their attack in the field by laying eggs on maturing pods until seeds are harvested. Attacks become severe when seeds are not properly stored or stored with high levels of moisture.

Bruchid Damages on Cowpea seeds

Cowpea bruchid is very dangerous and destructive to cowpea. Its damage can reduce the value and marketability of seeds. It can even reduce seed quality, especially the taste. The holes made by the larvae often make seeds unmarketable by reducing the weight, quality, and viability of cowpea seeds. This means that your cowpea products will be agriculturally and economically useless, and it will not be good for consumption as the taste will also be affected.

Importance of this technique

The solar treatment method is very important because apart from being very effective, it is the only natural method I have seen. It does not interfere with the taste and quality of cowpea seeds; It requires little or no expenses and whether you are storing for replanting, selling or consumption, you have nothing to worry about.

The SAWBO animated video

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This animated video you are about to watch was put together by the renowned team of researchers known as Scientific Animations Without Borders (SAWBO), after thorough research. The video is also available in other language variants, so you can watch in your preferred language for free if you click the “select a language” button.

If you want it translated into your local language, please feel free to contact the SAWBO team via email on contact@sawbo-animations.org.

Importance of this video

This video carefully illustrates how to engage in solar treatment of cowpea seeds from the comfort of your home or farm.

Note: Someone might be in serious need of this information so do not keep it to yourself.

Click to watch, download or share video in English language below:

Solar Treating of Cowpea Seeds

Or click HERE to watch, download or share video in your favorite language:

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You can also share by downloading it to your computer, broadcast, Smartphone and cell phone.

The degree of loss due to bruchid damage is quite high, variable and depends on the storage conditions. The damage increases as storage period is prolonged if not stored properly. This is a very good reason you share this information until it gets to that person who needs it most.

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Remember:

Seed saving is important, for it is a pathway out of hunger!!!