Overview

The effect of splitting cowpea prior to storage on the oviposition rate, generation time and number and weight of emergent Callosobruchus maculatus adults was investigated. Three treatments using Split seeds, Split + Whole seeds and Whole seeds (Control) were artificially infested with 5 pairs of 3-day old C. maculatus. The fecund adults were allowed to oviposit for 3 days and discarded. Incubation was conducted in 200-ml polystyrene jars fitted with perforated lids to permit maximum aeration under ambient laboratory conditions. Each treatment was replicated four times. The number of eggs laid, number and weights of emergent adults, and generation time were determined. The data were analysed as completely randomized design using MSTATC statistical package. The number of eggs and emergent adults was significantly affected by splitting of cowpea seeds. The weights of emergent adults on Split seeds, Split + Whole seeds and Whole seeds were determined as 29.7, 37.2 and 38.9 mg, respectively. Trials on the effect of splitting on subsequent generations of C. maculatus, shelf-life and palatability of cowpea seed are recommended.