| Abstrakt: |
This research was carried out to compare cowpea storage characteristics using different storage medium, under different weather conditions. Several technologies reputedly attribute losses of stored cowpea grain to bruchid beetles. Comparison of these different postharvest storage methods can provide the basis for deciding which performs best in terms of weight loss, pest infestation and nutritive losses. Proximate analysis was carried out before, during and after storage with two month intervals, over four months of storage in three storage media: a seed gene bank, modified anthill rhombus, and a covered container (the control). Temperature, humidity, and weight values (for moisture content analysis) were taken during the storage period. Results showed that the cowpea seed sample, stored in the AC section of the seed gene bank, proved to be more tolerant to pest infestation compared to seed samples, stored in the Modified anthill rhombus, and seed samples, stored under ambient conditions. The cowpea seeds weight recorded reduction after infestation, which also was significant when compared to the non-infested seeds in the seed gene bank. Proximate analysis of cowpea seeds after infestation showed a decrease in the value of carbohydrate content and protein, while crude fibre, moisture, fat and total ash recorded increased. Further research should be carried out on cowpea storage under different weather conditions, with and without insecticide, and using more media such as jute bags, etc. There should also be an extension of the storage period more than the four months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
