Conocimiento sobre los métodos de control de plagas agrícolas de los productores de maíz en los cantones Quito y Patate: una comparación

Abstract

Maize crop (Zea mays L.) has spread rapidly throughout the world and has become one of the main cereal crops worldwide. As in other important crops, the use of agrochemicals is the main method of pest control, however, little is known about the level of farmers' knowledge about the risk of this type of strategy. In this sense, this research aimed to diagnose the knowledge of agricultural pest control methods of corn farmers in the Quito and Patate cantons. A structured survey was applied to a sample of 40 respondents in each study area. Among the main pests in both areas represented by the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugperda), cutworm (Agrotis spp.), slugs and aphids, chemical control being used as the main pest management method. According to the results, producers in both areas are unaware of or do not give importance to the risks associated with the excessive use of pesticides, such as problems to human, animal, soil and water health. In relation to the factors that determine this behavior, it is included that farmers consider that they are effective products for pest control and that, for Patate producers, they show a rapid effect in control. Finally, the almost total lack of knowledge on the part of farmers about the potential benefit of other strategies such as biological control, use of resistant varieties, among others, was confirmed. The design of training and awareness campaigns for corn producers is recommended to avoid damage to health and the environment. Keywords: pest control, sustainable strategies, corn, Patate, Quito