Beat the Jassid! Cumin Crop Quiz Quiz

Challenge your understanding of effective jassid management in cumin farming, including identification, control methods, and integrated practices vital for sustainable yields.

1. Identifying Jassid Damage in Cumin

   What is a primary visible symptom of jassid infestation in cumin plants?

   1. Brown pod spots
   2. Stunted root growth
   3. White powdery coating on stems
   4. Curling and yellowing of leaves

   Explanation: Curling and yellowing of leaves are classical symptoms of jassid damage as these pests suck sap from the leaf veins. Brown pod spots are more associated with fungal diseases; stunted root growth typically results from soil-borne problems; a white powdery coating suggests powdery mildew, not jassid infestation.

2. Timing of Chemical Control

   At what stage should chemical insecticides ideally be applied for effective jassid management in cumin?

   1. After seeds have fully matured
   2. Just before harvesting
   3. Early vegetative growth when jassids first appear
   4. Only during seed sowing

   Explanation: Applying insecticides during early vegetative growth when jassids are first noticed helps prevent major infestations. Spraying after seed maturity or just before harvest is too late to protect yield, and application only during sowing does not target the pest's active period.

3. Cultural Method for Suppression

   Which cultural practice helps reduce jassid populations in cumin fields?

   1. Using excessive nitrogen fertilizer
   2. Continuous monoculture of cumin
   3. Delaying irrigation until late season
   4. Intercropping cumin with marigold

   Explanation: Intercropping with marigold can disrupt jassid colonization and attract beneficial insects. Continuous monoculture often increases pest pressure; delayed irrigation can stress plants; excessive nitrogen promotes lush growth, making plants more susceptible to pests.

4. Role of Natural Enemies

   Which natural enemy is most effective against jassids in cumin cultivation?

   1. Ladybird beetles
   2. Rice weevils
   3. Cutworms
   4. Aphids

   Explanation: Ladybird beetles are predatory insects that feed on jassid eggs and nymphs, aiding in biological control. Cutworms are pests, not predators; aphids are another crop pest; rice weevils affect stored grains, not living jassids in fields.

5. Integrated Jassid Management

   Which combination reflects an integrated approach for managing jassids in cumin crops?

   1. Applying herbicides regularly
   2. Only physical removal of jassids by hand
   3. Solely relying on chemical sprays
   4. Use of resistant varieties, timely insecticide sprays, and preserving beneficial insects

   Explanation: Integrated management combines resistant varieties, judicious chemical use, and conservation of natural enemies for sustainable jassid suppression. Chemical sprays alone can cause resistance; hand removal is impractical; herbicides target weeds, not insects.