Effect Of Mesembryanthemum sp. On The Date Pest Oryzaephilus surinamensis (Saw Toothed Grain Beetle)

The saw toothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, is a destructive stored product pest which diminishes the
yield, quantity, and quality of many stored products. This study was designed to investigate effect of the wild plant,
Mesembryanthemum sp. Powder on the adult O. surinamensis. Beetles were collected from infested dates in Sakaka,
Saudi Arabia, and identified, morphologically. Beetles were exposed to the Mesembryanthemum powder for varying
times. Results demonstrated that the daily mortality of adult O. surinamensis was significantly increased (P> 0.05) when
compared to the control, throughout the experimental period. Additionally, the median mortality time (IT50) of
Mesembryanthemum on adult O. surinamensis was 3.7 days. These findings suggested that the usage of
Mesembryanthemum powder in fighting stored product insects is a promising eco-friendly approach for managing these
pests. Incorporating this natural powder into date storage practices could empower farmers and businesses to minimize
losses inflicted by O. surinamensis. Further research is crucial to optimize the application methodology and to confirm
long-term efficacy and safety.