Root Fungus Control in Cumin Quiz Quiz

Assess your understanding of effective strategies and practices for managing root fungal diseases in cumin crops. Answer questions on identification, prevention, treatment, and cultural controls relevant to modern agriculture.

1. Identifying Root Rot in Cumin

   What is a common visual symptom of root rot fungus in cumin plants observed in the field?

   1. Sudden fruit drop
   2. Wilting and browning of lower leaves
   3. White powdery coating on leaves
   4. Yellow striping on upper leaf veins

   Explanation: Wilting and browning of lower leaves is a classic symptom of root rot since fungal pathogens attack the roots and vascular system, limiting water uptake. White powdery coating suggests powdery mildew, yellow striping may indicate a nutrient disorder or viral infection, and sudden fruit drop is less typical for root rots in cumin.

2. Favorable Conditions for Root Fungus

   Which environmental condition most favors the development of root rot fungus in cumin crops?

   1. Heavy insect activity
   2. Dry and windy conditions
   3. Waterlogged soils with poor drainage
   4. Frequent frost events

   Explanation: Waterlogged soils with poor drainage create an environment where root rot fungi can thrive due to limited oxygen and higher moisture. Dry and windy conditions do not favor fungal growth, frost affects plants differently, and insect activity mainly relates to pest issues, not fungal diseases.

3. Cultural Prevention Methods

   Which cultural practice can help prevent root fungal diseases in cumin fields?

   1. Increasing continuous monocropping
   2. Leaving plant residues unburied
   3. Planting at maximum density
   4. Crop rotation with non-host species

   Explanation: Crop rotation with non-host species breaks the lifecycle of pathogens by depriving them of suitable hosts. Monocropping increases disease risk, unburied residues can harbor fungi, and dense planting raises humidity and root contact, both fostering fungal growth.

4. Chemical Management Options

   When a root fungus is confirmed in a cumin crop, which chemical management option is typically recommended?

   1. Spraying broad-spectrum insecticides on foliage
   2. Increasing nitrogen fertilizer rates
   3. Watering more frequently
   4. Applying registered fungicides as a soil drench

   Explanation: Soil drenching with registered fungicides targets the disease at its source. Insecticides do not address fungal issues, more fertilizer doesn't control disease and may worsen it, and extra watering can increase root rot risk.

5. Resistant Varieties

   Why is using resistant cumin varieties considered effective for managing root fungal diseases?

   1. They have genetic traits that limit pathogen infection
   2. They fully eliminate all pests
   3. They require no soil management
   4. They grow faster regardless of disease presence

   Explanation: Resistant varieties possess genetic defenses that make them less susceptible to specific pathogens. Rapid growth does not guarantee disease resistance, good soil management is still necessary, and no cultivar completely eliminates all pest threats.