Explore key strategies and concepts in managing maize pests with this medium-difficulty quiz designed for agriculture enthusiasts and farmers. Gain insights into identification, prevention, and control measures for healthier maize crops.
Which of the following is a common symptom indicating maize stem borer infestation in maize plants?
Explanation: Deadheart formation is a classic sign of stem borer larvae feeding inside the stem, causing wilting or death of the central whorl. Yellow leaf margins usually indicate nutrient deficiency. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease, not caused by borers. Water-soaked lesions on cobs are typical of bacterial or fungal infections rather than insect damage.
What is one effective cultural practice for reducing maize pest populations before planting?
Explanation: Plowing under crop residues destroys overwintering pest larvae and pupae, lowering pest populations before the next crop. Weekly foliar insecticides are not a cultural method, may be excessive, and can increase resistance. Early harvesting may affect yield negatively. Night irrigation does not directly target pest populations.
Which natural enemy is commonly released or conserved in maize fields to help control fall armyworm populations?
Explanation: Trichogramma wasps parasitize pest eggs, including those of fall armyworm, reducing their numbers. Ladybird beetles target mainly aphids, not armyworms. Root-knot nematodes are plant parasites, not beneficial insects. House flies do not target maize pests.
When is the best time to apply insecticides for effective control of maize pests such as the maize stem borer?
Explanation: Applying insecticides when larvae are still on plant surfaces is most effective. Once inside the stems, larvae are protected, so late application is less effective. Seed storage treatments do not address field pest populations. Pre-harvest applications are too late for prevention.
What is the main advantage of cultivating maize varieties that are resistant to common pests?
Explanation: Resistant varieties lower the reliance on pesticides, reducing costs and environmental impact. No variety can guarantee complete immunity to pests. Weather resistance is unrelated to pest resistance, and there is no evidence that resistant varieties require more irrigation.