Combined effect of gamma radiation and an entomopathogenic nematode on some stored product pests

Pests infesting stored foods are one of the most common economic problems. Stored product Pests can have a large economic impact on stored bulk grain and processed commodities (Hagstrum and Flinn, 1995). These insects can survive on small amounts of food that accumulate in inaccessible places, such as cracks and crevices, under perforated floors, and inside machinery, and may move from these refuges into packaged and bulk stored products (Campbell et al., 2004). The economic importance of stored product pests and health concerns are: 1-Stored product pests contaminate food far more than they consume. 2- They cause loss in the mass and quality of food. 3- They often cause serious damage to stored foods. 4- An entire stock may be lost if control measures are not employed. 5-Visible damage resulting from their feeding activity will cause food to be refused by consumers. In addition, seeds became invalid for planting. 6-The presence of large numbers of pests will cause food to be rejected by consumers. 7-The activity of stored product pests may lead to the growth of fungi which may be harmful to consumers. 8-Some insects produce benzo- quinones (odour chemicals) which may cause persistent disagreeable odour in commodities.