Shail Kumari Tripathi, Nidhi Somkuwar and R. J. Andrew
Published in Vol.16, 2026
KEYWORDS: Stored Grain Pest, Chickpea, Cicer arietinum, Callosobruchus maculatus
ABSTRACT:
Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an economically important pulse crop widely consumed for its nutritional value; however, its storage is severely affected by bruchid beetles, particularly Callosobruchus maculatus. The present study investigated infestation levels and grain deterioration in kabuli chickpea stored under light and dark conditions for 60 days at 15-day intervals. No infestation was observed after 15 days in either treatment; however, pest population and grain damage increased progressively thereafter. Dark storage consistently exhibited higher infestation intensity and more severe grain deterioration compared to light exposure. By day 60, dark-stored samples recorded maximum pest abundance and extensive seed damage, including conversion of grains into powder form. The findings indicate that storage environment significantly influences bruchid activity and grain quality deterioration, highlighting the importance of improved storage management strategies.