An innovative device for the eggs cleaning of rice meal moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

The eggs of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) remain mixed with insect scales and broken insect body parts in the oviposition containers while doing mass rearing in the insectaries, which necessitate its cleaning. An innovative mechanical device was invented, developed and standardized for cleaning of Corcyra eggs and to maintain a hygienic environment in the insectaries. This device consists of a tubular column, a specialized funnel, and it is operated with the help of a vacuum cleaner. The device offers a clean and efficient method of collection and cleaning of eggs, obviating health hazards to workers.