SITBAG - Biological pest control in rice storage

The overall objective of this demonstration project is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of a biological control strategy for managing rice weevils in stored rice in Catalonia and to contribute to the sustainability of the agri-food sector.

In Catalonia, approximately 132,000 tonnes of rice are produced, 95% of which are grown in the Ebro Delta. After harvesting, rice is stored under controlled temperature and humidity conditions to preserve its quality.

During this stage, the grain may be attacked by various insect species, such as borers (Rhyzopertha dominica and species of the genus Sitophilus) and Sitotroga cerealella. Among them, Sitophilus zeamais is the most abundant and causes the greatest economic impact, leading to significant losses in both weight and quality.

The most widely used control method is the application of insecticides. However, the parasitoid wasp Anisopteromalus calandrae has shown high effectiveness in controlling these insects. The implementation of an alternative biological control strategy would reduce the technical and environmental risks associated with the use of plant protection products, such as the development of resistance and the presence of toxic residues.

Action of the Strategic Plan of the PAC 2023-2027 co-funded by: