In hermetic (gas-tight) grain storage bags (such as Purdue Improved Crop Storage - PICS bags), insect pest control is accomplished through:
Options:
(A) Natural depletion of oxygen and accumulation of carbon dioxide generated by the respiration of insects and grain, causing suffocation
(B) Chemical phosphine gas fumigation canisters
(C) Refrigerated cryogenic chilling
(D) Ultraviolet light lamps inside the bag
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
Hermetic bags create a sealed oxygen barrier; living insect and seed respiration consumes oxygen, reducing $O_2$ below $5\%$ and raising $CO_2$, killing all developmental stages without insecticides.