Answer :
Let's go through each question one by one:
- A key advantage of using reduviids in pest management is:
(a) Their specificity to target pests.
Reduviids, also known as assassin bugs, are predatory insects that often target specific pests, making them useful in controlling particular pest populations without harming beneficial insects. Therefore, the correct choice is (a) Their specificity to target pests.
- Which of the following is an example of a parasitoid used in biological control?
(c) Aphidius colemani (a wasp).
Aphidius colemani is a parasitoid wasp commonly used in biological control to manage aphid populations. Unlike predators that consume many prey, parasitoids lay their eggs inside or on the body of a host insect, eventually killing it as the parasitoid develops. Therefore, the correct choice is (c) Aphidius colemani (a wasp).
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) primarily focuses on:
(c) Combining multiple control strategies.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control that uses a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, cultural practices, and, if necessary, chemical applications. This integrated approach is aimed at reducing pest populations to acceptable levels while minimizing environmental impact. Therefore, the correct choice is (c) Combining multiple control strategies.
- Which of the following is a primary goal of pathogen and pest management?
(b) Enhance crop yield and quality.
The primary goal of pathogen and pest management is to reduce the negative impacts of pests and diseases on crop production, thereby enhancing the yield and quality of the crops. It's not about eliminating all insects or increasing pesticide use, but rather ensuring sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. Therefore, the correct choice is (b) Enhance crop yield and quality.
- What is a common characteristic of biocontrol agents?
A common characteristic of biocontrol agents is that they often target specific pests or pathogens with minimal impact on other organisms. While many biological control agents are insects, they can also include fungi, bacteria, and other organisms. The statement that they are always insects is not accurate for all biocontrol agents. Therefore, simply stating that they have specificity to certain pests would be a more accurate common characteristic.
