Comprehensive Resources for Agriculture: Topical Questions, Past Papers, and Answers
Atika School
Biting and Chewing Pests vs. Piercing and Sucking Pests: Different Feeding Habits, Common Crop Pests10/11/2023 Biting and Chewing Pests vs. Piercing and Sucking Pests: Different Feeding Habits, Common Crop Pestsa) Name two classes of crop pests based on their feeding habits
Biting and Chewing Pests vs. Piercing and Sucking Pests: Different Feeding Habits, Common Crop Pests Introduction: Crop pests can be classified into different classes based on their feeding habits. Understanding these feeding habits is crucial for implementing effective pest management strategies. In this essay, we will explore two classes of crop pests: biting and chewing pests and piercing and sucking pests. We will discuss their feeding habits and provide examples of common crop pests in each class. Biting and Chewing Pests: Biting and chewing pests are characterized by their feeding behavior of physically biting and chewing on plant tissues. These pests cause damage by consuming parts of the plant, such as leaves, stems, and fruits. They usually leave visible evidence of their feeding, such as chewed leaves or partially eaten fruits. Examples of biting and chewing pests include:
Piercing and sucking pests, as the name suggests, have specialized mouthparts that allow them to pierce the plant tissues and suck out the sap or plant juices. These pests do not physically consume parts of the plant but extract nutrients from the plant cells, causing damage in the process. Their feeding often leads to wilting, yellowing, and distortion of plant tissues. Examples of piercing and sucking pests include:
Understanding the different classes of crop pests based on their feeding habits is essential for effective pest management. Biting and chewing pests consume plant tissues, while piercing and sucking pests extract sap or plant juices. Examples of common biting and chewing pests include caterpillars and beetles, while aphids and spider mites are examples of piercing and sucking pests. By identifying these pests and implementing appropriate control measures, farmers can protect their crops from damage and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity. Effects of Weaver Birds on Maize Crops: Grain Damage and Crop Destruction Introduction: Weaver birds are known for their intricate nest-building skills and vibrant plumage. However, when it comes to maize crops, these birds can cause significant damage. In this essay, we will discuss two effects of weaver birds on maize crops while in the field: grain damage at the milky/tough stage and destruction of the silks. Grain Damage at the Milky/Tough Stage: One of the effects of weaver birds on maize crops is the damage they cause to the grains when they are at the milky or tough stage. During this stage, the maize grains are still developing and contain a milky or dough-like substance. Weaver birds are attracted to these grains and feed on them by pecking through the husks. This leads to direct damage to the developing grains, resulting in reduced yield and quality of the maize crop. Open Up the Ears: Another effect of weaver birds on maize crops is their tendency to open up the ears of maize plants. Weaver birds have strong beaks that they use to peck and pull apart the husks and silks of the maize ears. By doing so, they gain access to the developing grains inside. This behavior not only exposes the maize grains to potential damage from other pests and environmental factors but also affects the overall structural integrity of the ears. As a result, the maize ears may become more susceptible to breakage or contamination, leading to further yield losses. Destruction of the Silks: The silks of maize plants play a crucial role in the pollination process. They are responsible for capturing and transferring pollen to the developing kernels. However, weaver birds can cause significant damage to the silks by pecking at them or pulling them apart. This interference disrupts the pollination process and can lead to poor kernel development and reduced grain formation. Ultimately, the destruction of the silks by weaver birds can result in lower maize yields and poor crop quality. Conclusion: Weaver birds can have detrimental effects on maize crops while in the field. They can cause damage to the grains at the milky/tough stage, leading to reduced yield and quality. Additionally, their behavior of opening up the ears and destroying the silks can disrupt the pollination process and result in further yield losses. Farmers should implement appropriate bird deterrent measures, such as netting or scare tactics, to minimize the damage caused by weaver birds and protect their maize crops.
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