Bye-Bye Bengal Gram Borers! Quiz

Explore integrated pest management strategies, identification techniques, and control measures for Bengal gram borers to improve crop resilience and yields. This quiz covers common mistakes, IPM components, and best practices for managing these pests in agriculture.

1. Identifying Bengal Gram Borers

   Which of the following is a key distinguishing feature of the Bengal gram borer (Helicoverpa armigera) larva commonly found on chickpea plants?

   1. Bright red wings and short antennae
   2. Large white patches near the tail
   3. Shiny black spots all over the thorax
   4. Prominent pale stripes running along the body

   Explanation: Prominent pale stripes along the body help identify Helicoverpa armigera larvae on chickpea plants. Bright red wings and short antennae describe adult insects, not larvae. Shiny black spots over the thorax are not characteristic of this species, and large white patches near the tail are not typical features of Bengal gram borers.

2. Cultural Control Practices

   Which cultural practice best helps reduce the population of Bengal gram borers in chickpea fields?

   1. Using high-nitrogen fertilizer
   2. Spraying sugar water regularly
   3. Deep ploughing after harvest
   4. Delaying sowing until late winter

   Explanation: Deep ploughing after harvest exposes pupae hidden in the soil, reducing future pest populations. High-nitrogen fertilizer may promote lush growth but does not reduce borer incidence. Spraying sugar water does not affect borer numbers. Delaying sowing may actually increase risk in regions where pest pressure is higher later in the season.

3. Chemical Control Options

   When chemical control is deemed necessary, which factor should be considered first before spraying insecticides against Bengal gram borers?

   1. The color of the chickpea flowers
   2. Economic threshold level of pests
   3. Last year's market price for chickpeas
   4. Size of the farm tractor

   Explanation: Integrated pest management advises spraying only when pest numbers exceed the economic threshold to avoid unnecessary chemical use. Flower color has no bearing on spray decisions. Market price influences profits but not pest management actions. Tractor size is unrelated to the decision to spray.

4. Biological Control Methods

   Which biological agent is most effective in naturally controlling Bengal gram borer larvae in chickpea crops?

   1. Trichogramma wasp
   2. Crop rotation with maize
   3. Flooding the field
   4. Application of seaweed extract

   Explanation: Trichogramma wasps parasitize borer eggs, helping manage their population. Crop rotation helps generally but is not a biological control method. Flooding is not suitable for chickpea and does not target the pest. Seaweed extract is not a recognized control against Bengal gram borers.

5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Principles

   Why is integrating multiple pest management techniques recommended for Bengal gram borers in agriculture?

   1. So that all farmers get government subsidies
   2. To make chickpeas taste sweeter
   3. It reduces the risk of pest resistance and environmental harm
   4. Because only one method is always ineffective

   Explanation: Using several control methods in IPM reduces reliance on chemicals, helping prevent resistance and limiting environmental impact. Subsidies are not the focus of IPM. While single methods may be insufficient, the main aim is sustainable pest suppression. Sweetness of chickpeas is not affected by pest management integration.