Explore key strategies and concepts in managing larvae pests affecting Bengal gram crops. Improve your knowledge of pest identification, prevention, and treatment for healthier yields.
Which of the following larvae is a major pest of Bengal gram crops, causing pod damage and yield loss?
Explanation: Helicoverpa armigera, also known as the gram pod borer, is the primary larvae pest damaging Bengal gram by feeding on pods. Spodoptera frugiperda targets maize and other crops, not Bengal gram. Plutella xylostella is a pest of cruciferous vegetables. Agrotis ipsilon, the cutworm, affects seedlings of various crops but is not a major Bengal gram pest.
At which stage in its lifecycle does Helicoverpa armigera cause the most damage to Bengal gram crops?
Explanation: The larval stage of Helicoverpa armigera is when it feeds aggressively on Bengal gram pods. The pupal and egg stages are inactive with no direct feeding. The adult moth's role is reproduction and laying eggs, not causing physical damage to the crop.
Which tool is commonly used by farmers to monitor adult moth activity and predict Helicoverpa armigera outbreaks in Bengal gram fields?
Explanation: Pheromone traps are designed to attract and capture adult male moths, helping farmers track pest populations and predict outbreaks. Soil augers are used for soil sampling, not pest monitoring. Pitfall traps capture ground-dwelling insects, while sticky cards are better for flying insects like whiteflies but are less specific for Helicoverpa armigera.
Which biological control agent is commonly introduced into Bengal gram fields to reduce Helicoverpa armigera larval populations?
Explanation: Trichogramma chilonis is a parasitoid wasp that targets Helicoverpa eggs, thereby reducing larval emergence. Aphidius colemani targets aphids, Coccinella septempunctata preys on aphids and other soft-bodied insects, and Neoseiulus cucumeris targets mites, not Helicoverpa larvae.
Which cultural practice can help minimize Helicoverpa armigera infestations in Bengal gram cultivation?
Explanation: Timely sowing ensures that Bengal gram crops avoid peak periods of pest pressure, thereby lowering infestation risk. Frequent watering does not directly impact pest outbreaks. Excessive nitrogen may encourage tender growth susceptible to pests. Continuous cropping increases pest buildup in fields.