Explore effective techniques and best practices for managing caterpillar pests in banana cultivation. This quiz covers identification, control methods, and impacts of caterpillar infestations.
Which of the following is a common sign of banana skipper caterpillar infestation in banana plantations?
Explanation: Banana skipper caterpillars typically roll banana leaves and bind them with silk, often leaving behind frass (caterpillar droppings). Wilting is more usually caused by fungal infections, black sigatoka creates dark leaf spots, and root knots/galls are signs of nematode infestation, not caterpillars.
What is a recommended physical method for managing caterpillar populations in small-scale banana farms?
Explanation: Manually removing caterpillar larvae and their rolled leaf shelters is a practical and cost-effective way to control populations on small farms. Systemic fungicides and fertilizers do not target caterpillars, while flooding is not relevant and could harm banana plants.
Which natural enemy helps regulate caterpillar pests in banana crops by parasitizing their larvae?
Explanation: Parasitic wasps lay eggs inside caterpillar larvae, which helps suppress pest populations naturally. Earthworms and pollinator bees benefit the soil and pollination, respectively, while aphids are actually plant pests themselves, not beneficial enemies of caterpillars.
Which biological pesticide is commonly used to control caterpillar infestations in bananas with minimal impact on beneficial insects?
Explanation: Bt is a bacteria-based biopesticide that specifically targets caterpillars while causing minimal harm to non-target and beneficial insects. Glyphosate is an herbicide, copper oxychloride targets fungi, and sulfur dust is mainly used against mites and fungal diseases.
What is a potential drawback of frequent chemical insecticide use for caterpillar control in banana plantations?
Explanation: Overusing chemical insecticides can lead to resistance in caterpillar populations, reducing future control effectiveness. Increased fruit size and soil fertility are unrelated, while pollinator numbers often decrease with heavy insecticide use rather than increase.