Other important pest species found in and around almond processing plants during our trapping work included Indian meal moth ( Plodia interpunctella ), saw-toothed beetles ( Oryzaephilus spp ) and flat grain beetles ( Cryptolestes spp ) ( Figures 3d-f ); but RRFB was by far the most common , as can be seen in Figure 4 . Although some insect species found in almond stockpiles may not cause any kernel damage directly , their presence in large numbers can alter the stockpile microclimate by raising temperatures and moisture levels . This may increase the growth of damaging bacteria , moulds and fungi which in turn can attract more insects to the stockpiles , so management of these incidental species is still important .

Figure 4 . Proportion of beetle groups collected during two-week trapping periods at almond processing plants .

Conclusion We have found a wide variety of insects in almond stockpiles , including orchard pests , stored product pests and incidental species . Effective management of all three groups of insects , beginning with orchard practices and followed by rapid post-harvest processing or treatment , is necessary to minimise losses in crop yield and quality .

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