Pest and Disease Management Flashcards
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Which of the following is an example of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practice?
Answer: Introducing natural predators to control pests
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to pest control that prioritizes long-term prevention and suppression with minimal environmental impact. Introducing natural predators, such as beneficial insects or microorganisms, is a key biological control strategy within IPM. This method targets pests without relying solely on chemical pesticides, aligning with IPM's goal of sustainable pest management.
What is the primary sign of powdery mildew infection?
Answer: White, powdery coating on leaves
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease easily identified by its distinctive appearance on plants. The primary sign of infection is a white or grayish powdery coating that forms on the surface of leaves, stems, and sometimes flowers and fruits. This powdery substance is composed of fungal spores and mycelia, making it a clear diagnostic symptom.
Which pest is most commonly associated with honeydew production on plants?
Answer: Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that feed on plant juices, often found in clusters on new growth or the undersides of leaves. As they feed, they excrete a sticky, sugary waste product called honeydew. This honeydew can then lead to the growth of sooty mold, which is a common secondary sign of an aphid infestation.
What is a primary cultural practice to reduce the risk of root rot in plants?
Answer: Ensuring proper drainage in soil or containers
Root rot is a destructive plant disease caused by fungi or oomycetes that thrive in waterlogged, oxygen-deprived soil conditions. Ensuring proper drainage in soil or containers is crucial because it prevents excess water from accumulating around the roots. This allows roots to access necessary oxygen and reduces the anaerobic environment favored by root rot pathogens, thereby promoting healthy root development.
What type of pest is controlled using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)?
Answer: Caterpillars and larvae
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring bacterium widely used as a biological pesticide. It produces protein crystals that are toxic specifically to the larvae of certain insect orders, most notably caterpillars (Lepidoptera) and some beetle larvae, when ingested. Bt is valued for its selective action, as it generally does not harm beneficial insects, humans, or other animals.