Insects are responsible for significant losses to the world's total crop production annually. Not all insects are pests but a small number are harmful to crops, livestock and humans. One major reason for the occurrence of these pests is the creation of man-manipulated habitats, with crops selected for their large size, high yield, nutritious value, and clustered in a confined area. This provides a highly conducive environment for herbivorous insects. Good post-harvest management and storage conditions are important in reducing losses caused by insect infestation.
Organization: International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Nairobi, Kenya
Author: Mohamed N. Sallam
Technical Editor: Danilo Mejía, FAO
Last revised: 14/10/1999 Download Document (pdf 37pp 0.4Mb)