WA grain growers are reminded to check stored grain for pest infestations especially if the grain is contracted to market.
Department of Agriculture and Food biosecurity officer Jeff Russell said growers who stored grain on farm should regularly inspect silos for pests and ensure they were in good condition and working effectively.
“If insects are present in stored grain, they will need to be treated well before any set delivery date if the grain is being marketed,” Mr Russell said.
“Fumigation with phosphine will take 10-17 days. This will allow one day for the gas to be generated, seven days fumigation (ensuring all life stages are killed), a minimum of one day ventilation with aerators or five days without aeration and a withholding period of two days after ventilation.”
Mr Russell said fumigation must be carried out in a properly sealed silo which is ‘gas tight’. If a proper gas tight seal is not maintained for the required fumigation time, not all stages (eggs, larvae, pupae and adult) of the life cycle will be controlled and resistance can develop.
“Phosphine resistance in stored grain insects is a significant issue for the Australian grain industry and repeated fumigations in poorly sealed storages is a major contributing factor to this resistance,” he said.
“If live insects survive after fumigation in a properly sealed silo, it is recommended that a sample is submitted for testing. Growers can contact their local DAFWA biosecurity officer for more information on where to send samples.
Further information on grain storage is available at storedgrain.com.au or for information on farm biosecurity and exotic pests, visit the Plant Health Australia website phau.com.au or contact Jeff Russell.
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