Effect of Microwave Radiation on the Southern Cowpea Bettle Callosobruchus maculatus (F)

This study investigated the effect of microwave radiation at different power levels of 100, 300, and 600 w at different exposure durations of 60, 80, and 100 sec, against eggs, first-instar larvae, and adults of the southern cowpea beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (F). The results showed significant differences in mortality, and 600 w with exposure time of 100 sec being superior. There was 100% mortality of eggs, first-instar larvae and adult; the incubation period of the eggs increased with exposure. The germination of cowpea grains was not significantly affected.