Comprehensive Resources for Agriculture: Topical Questions, Past Papers, and Answers
Atika School
Harmful Effects of Crop Pests on Maize ProductionState four harmful effects of crop pests in maize production.
Harmful Effects of Crop Pests in Maize Production Crop pests can greatly reduce maize production if not properly managed. Some of the key pests and their harmful effects include: Some pests like moles and nematodes damage the roots of maize plants. This undermines the ability of the roots to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Damaged roots also make the plants susceptible to being knocked over by wind. Other pests like rats and birds directly feed on the sown seeds, reducing germination rates. Some insects actually destroy the embryo of maize seeds, preventing them from sprouting altogether. Certain insects act as vectors, transmitting diseases from infected to healthy maize plants. For example, some aphids spread viral diseases as they feed on the plants. The diseases spread through the field and yield losses mount up. Other insects destroy vital plant parts. Stalk borers for instance bore into the apical buds or growing points, disrupting vertical plant growth. This results in shortened, poorly formed plants. The effects of pests are not only felt during the growing season. Heavily infested crops fetch lower prices in the market due to lower quality. Blemishes and defects caused by pests reduce the aesthetic and eating appeal of the produce. This negatively impacts both smallholder income and national food security. Timely control of maize pests is therefore necessary to maximize yields and safeguard farmer livelihoods.
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