1. Define and describe field

Question

pest
2. Mention three examples of
field pest
3. Define and describe
storage pest
4. State three examples of
storage pest

Answer 1

Certainly, let's delve into the definitions and examples regarding both field pests and storage pests.

### 1. Define and Describe Field Pest

**Field Pest:**
Field pests are organisms that infest and damage crops while they are still growing in the field. These pests can include insects, mites, nematodes, rodents, birds, and even some species of fungi and bacteria. They cause a variety of harmful effects such as feeding on the plant tissues, transmitting diseases, and competing with the crops for resources like nutrients, water, and light. The impact of field pests can lead to significant yield losses and reduced quality of produce if not managed effectively.

### 2. Examples of Field Pests

1. **Aphids (Aphididae family):**
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can be found on a variety of crops. They reproduce quickly and can cause significant damage by feeding on plant sap, leading to stunted growth and deformities. They also secrete a substance known as honeydew, which can promote the growth of sooty mold on the plants.

2. **Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa zea):**
This caterpillar is a major pest of corn as well as other crops such as tomatoes and cotton. The larvae feed on the kernels of corn ears, which can lead to significant damage and yield loss.

3. **Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata):**
This beetle is a notorious pest of potato crops. Both the larvae and adult beetles feed on the foliage of potato plants, which can lead to complete defoliation and severe reductions in tuber yield.

### 3. Define and Describe Storage Pest

**Storage Pest:**
Storage pests are organisms that infest and damage agricultural products after they have been harvested and stored. These pests usually include insects, rodents, and fungi. They thrive in storage environments and can lead to contamination, spoilage, and significant loss of stored products. The impact of storage pests can compromise food safety, reduce the quality and quantity of stored produce, and cause economic losses.

### 4. Examples of Storage Pests

1. **Rice Weevil (Sitophilus oryzae):**
The rice weevil is a small beetle that infests stored grains such as rice, wheat, and corn. Both the larvae and adults feed on the grains, boring into them and causing significant damage. Infestations can lead to considerable losses in stored grain quality and quantity.

2. **Indian Meal Moth (Plodia interpunctella):**
This moth is a common pest of stored products such as grains, flour, dried fruits, nuts, and processed foods. The larvae spin silken webs and contaminate food products with their feces and larval skins, rendering them unfit for consumption.

3. **Lesser Grain Borer (Rhyzopertha dominica):**
This beetle infests stored grains such as wheat and rice. Both the larvae and adults bore into the grains, causing extensive damage. The presence of these pests can lead to a decline in grain quality and significant economic losses.

Effective pest management strategies, both in the field and during storage, are crucial to minimize the damage these pests cause and to maintain the quality and quantity of agricultural produce.