Mastering Mango Scales Quiz Quiz

Explore important concepts and practical approaches for managing scale insect pests in mango cultivation. Strengthen your understanding of identification, control methods, and integrated pest management strategies relevant to horticulturists and growers.

1. Identifying Scale Infestations

   Which visual symptom most strongly indicates a heavy scale insect infestation on mango leaves and twigs?

   1. Wilting roots
   2. Sticky honeydew with sooty mold
   3. White powdery mildew patches
   4. Sunken brown fruit spots

   Explanation: Sticky honeydew and the appearance of black sooty mold are typical signs of scale insects feeding on mango surfaces, as they excrete sugary waste. Sunken brown fruit spots are more indicative of anthracnose or other diseases, not scale insects. Wilting roots are rarely a symptom of above-ground scale infestations. White powdery mildew patches are caused by fungi, not insects.

2. Chemical Control Timing

   When is the most effective time to apply insecticides for controlling mango scale insects?

   1. Only during flower initiation
   2. During the crawler (nymph) stage
   3. When scales are in adult form with hard coverings
   4. Immediately after harvest during storage

   Explanation: Insecticides are most effective when applied during the crawler stage, as these young scales lack protective coverings and are more vulnerable. Applying to hard-covered adults reduces effectiveness, and postharvest or flowering-only applications miss key windows for control. Targeting crawlers improves management outcomes.

3. Natural Enemies in IPM

   What role do natural enemies play in an integrated management program for mango scales?

   1. They accelerate scale reproduction
   2. They attract more scale insects to the orchard
   3. They help reduce scale populations by predation or parasitism
   4. They act as chemical repellents

   Explanation: Natural enemies like ladybird beetles and parasitoid wasps prey on or parasitize scales, lowering their numbers naturally. They do not accelerate reproduction or attract scales, and they are not chemical repellents. Incorporating these beneficial organisms aids sustainable pest management.

4. Cultural Practices for Scale Management

   Which cultural practice helps manage mango scale infestations and promote tree health?

   1. Applying excessive nitrogen fertilizer
   2. Delaying irrigation until fruit set
   3. Using broad-spectrum herbicides regularly
   4. Pruning infested branches and maintaining orchard cleanliness

   Explanation: Pruning and maintaining cleanliness removes infested material and limits pest spread. Excessive nitrogen may promote tender growth susceptible to pests, delayed irrigation stresses trees, and broad herbicides target weeds but can harm mango trees or beneficial organisms.

5. Host Plant Resistance

   How can selecting resistant mango varieties assist in controlling scale insect issues?

   1. They make fruit immune to fungal diseases
   2. Resistant varieties reduce the likelihood of serious scale infestations
   3. They require no irrigation or nutrients
   4. They completely eliminate all insect pests

   Explanation: Planting varieties with resistance or tolerance to scales lowers infestation risk and supports integrated approaches. However, these varieties may not be immune to all pests, still need proper nutrients and water, and have no guaranteed resistance to fungal diseases.