Farmers’ knowledge, perceptions and management practices for termite pests of maize in Southern Benin

摘要: Termite (Isoptera: Termitidae) infestation is an important constraint of maize production in Benin. A survey 300 households was conducted 2018 throughout 30 villages Southern Benin to evaluate farmers’ knowledge, perceptions and management practices termite pests using focus group discussions individual interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire. The results showed that for most the farmers, susceptible crop attacks maturation developmental stage having highest abundance damage. total 43 different names corresponding 8 species were recorded study area. Size colour main criteria used by farmers classify identify pests. Amitermes evuncifer perceived as damaging during vegetative stages, while Macrotermes bellicosus famers (32.5%) seedling flowering development stages. Erratic rainfall producers factor favouring fields. majority local considered termites. use synthetic insecticides method control Four 20 pesticides have active ingredients been listed highly hazardous (class Ib) World Health Organization (WHO). Farmers training on danger impact misuse insecticide resistance recommended. integrated strategy discussed future research its implementation identified.