Beat the Bugs: Mustard Sucking Pests Quiz Quiz

Assess your understanding of mustard pest management strategies with questions on pest identification, control measures, and integrated approaches. Sharpen your knowledge to effectively manage mustard sucking pests in agricultural practices.

1. Aphid Identification

   Which of the following sucking pests is most commonly responsible for significant yield losses in mustard crops, particularly by forming dense colonies on tender shoots?

   1. Root grub
   2. Stem borer
   3. Cutworm
   4. Mustard aphid

   Explanation: Mustard aphids (Lipaphis erysimi) are the primary sucking pests affecting mustard, forming dense colonies and extracting plant sap. Root grub and cutworm are soil pests and do not suck sap. Stem borer damages plant tissues but is not a sucking pest.

2. Symptoms of Pest Attack

   A farmer notices yellowing, curling of leaves, and sticky honeydew on mustard plants. Which sucking pest is most likely causing these symptoms?

   1. Termite
   2. Mustard aphid
   3. Armyworm
   4. Whitefly

   Explanation: Mustard aphids cause yellowing, leaf curling, and honeydew secretion on infested plants. Whiteflies can also produce honeydew but are less common on mustard. Armyworms and termites are not sap-sucking pests that would cause these symptoms.

3. Timing of Chemical Application

   When is the optimal time to apply systemic insecticides to control mustard aphids for the best effect and minimal impact on pollinators?

   1. During full bloom
   2. At initial pest appearance before flowering
   3. After pod formation
   4. At harvest time

   Explanation: Applying systemic insecticides before flowering targets aphids early and reduces risk to pollinators. Spraying at full bloom or after pod formation can harm beneficial insects or be ineffective. Spraying at harvest is too late for control.

4. Biological Pest Control

   Which of the following is a natural enemy commonly used in the biological control of mustard aphids?

   1. Ladybird beetle
   2. Cutworm larva
   3. Millipede
   4. Mealybug

   Explanation: Ladybird beetles are effective predators of aphids in mustard. Mealybugs are pests, not predators. Millipedes are detritivores, and cutworm larvae feed on plant matter but don't control aphids.

5. Integrated Management Strategy

   Which integrated approach helps sustainably manage sucking pests in mustard fields?

   1. Using pest-resistant varieties, cultural practices, and biological agents
   2. Delaying sowing late in the season
   3. Flooding the field with water
   4. Sole use of chemical pesticides

   Explanation: Integrating pest-resistant varieties, proper agronomic practices, and natural enemies gives lasting, sustainable pest management. Sole reliance on chemicals risks resistance. Delayed sowing or flooding are ineffective for mustard sucking pests.