Ent. Cat 1

MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY - ( KISII CAMPUS)
NAME : ODONGO MOLINE AKINYI
ADM NO. : BEDS/2024/50360
UNIT NAME : GENERAL ENTOMOLOGY
CODE : BBY 3109
LECTURER : ROBERT OUKO
CAT 1
.............................................................................................................
TASK : Outline application of entomology in food security in Kenya. (10mks)
Introduction
Entomology is the scientific study of insects, like bees, locusts, and butterflies. Food security
means having enough safe and healthy food for everyone at all times. In Kenya, insects have a
big impact on agriculture, which is very important for food production. Some insects help crops
grow better, while others cause damage. By studying how insects live and behave, scientists
(called entomologists) can help improve food security in Kenya. They do this by finding ways to
control harmful insects (pests), boosting the role of helpful insects like pollinators, and even
using insects as a source of food.
Application Areas of Entomology to Food Security
1. Pest Control
Some insects, like locusts, armyworms, and weevils, are major pests in Kenya. These pests attack
crops and can cause serious damage, leading to food shortages. For example, locust swarms can
destroy entire fields of crops within hours. Entomologists study these harmful insects to learn
about their life cycles and behavior. By understanding how pests spread and reproduce,
entomologists can develop ways to control them without always using harmful pesticides.
One method is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This approach combines different
strategies to control pests, such as using natural predators, like ladybirds, which eat harmful
insects like aphids. Aphids damage crops like maize, so by releasing ladybirds into the fields,
farmers can reduce the number of aphids without using chemicals. This helps save crops,
increases food production, and protects the environment.
2. Pollination Services
Pollinators are insects that help plants produce fruits by carrying pollen from one flower to
another. Bees are the most well-known pollinators, and their role in food production is crucial. In
Kenya, crops like coffee, mangoes, and avocados depend on bees and other pollinators for good
harvests.
Entomologists study the behavior and needs of pollinators to help farmers increase their crop
yields. For example, bees need safe places to live and flowers to feed on. Entomologists advise
farmers on how to create environments that attract more bees by planting flowering plants,
reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and preserving natural habitats. By protecting and
supporting pollinators, farmers can improve the production of crops that rely on insect
pollination, leading to better food security.
In simple terms, entomologists help farmers take care of the insects that are needed to grow more
food while also managing the ones that cause damage.
3. Insect-Based Food
Insects offer an alternative protein source that can improve food security by providing affordable
and nutritious food. Edible insects like crickets and termites are already consumed in various
Kenyan communities. These insects are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients,
making them a valuable addition to the diet. Entomologists study the nutritional benefits and
develop farming techniques for these insects to promote them as sustainable food options. By
encouraging insect farming, they aim to reduce reliance on traditional livestock, which requires
more resources, and support a more environmentally friendly and accessible approach to food
production.
4. Post-Harvest Loss Management
Insects like grain weevils and flour beetles cause major post-harvest losses by infesting stored
grains. To reduce these losses, entomologists research improved storage methods, including the
use of airtight containers and biological pest control. One effective solution is diatomaceous
earth, a natural substance that helps prevent insect infestations in stored grains like maize and
beans. By using these methods, farmers can preserve their food stocks and reduce food waste,
ensuring better food security. This research supports more efficient and sustainable grain storage,
minimizing the damage caused by pests.
5. Environmental Conservation
Certain insects, like dung beetles, play a crucial role in soil health and waste decomposition,
which are key to sustainable agriculture. These insects break down organic matter, returning vital
nutrients to the soil and improving its fertility. Entomologists study these soil insects to
understand their impact on soil health and agricultural productivity. In Kenya, where arid and
semi-arid regions face low agricultural output, maintaining healthy soils is essential for food
security. By promoting the role of beneficial insects, farmers can enhance soil quality, leading to
better crop yields and more resilient farming practices.
Conclusion
Entomology is vital for promoting food security in Kenya by addressing key agricultural
challenges. Entomologists help manage pests, improve crop pollination, introduce insect-based
foods, and reduce post-harvest losses in stored grains. They also work to conserve the
environment by studying the role of beneficial insects in soil health and waste decomposition.
Through their scientific knowledge of insects, entomologists support sustainable farming
practices, ensuring better food production and preservation. This contributes to feeding Kenya's
growing population while protecting natural resources, making agriculture more resilient and
efficient.
References
1. Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)
2. International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)
3. Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, Kenya

Ent. Cat 1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ent. Cat 1

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ent. Cat 1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY - ( KISII CAMPUS)

NAME : ODONGO MOLINE AKINYI

ADM NO. : BEDS/2024/50360

UNIT NAME : GENERAL ENTOMOLOGY

CODE : BBY 3109

LECTURER : ROBERT OUKO

TASK : Outline application of entomology in food security in Kenya. (10mks)

4. Post-Harvest Loss Management

1. Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)

2. International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)

3. Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, Kenya

You might also like