Pest Identification and Management Flashcards

Which of the following arthropod pests is MOST commonly associated with transmitting Lyme disease to humans in the United States?

Answer: Blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis)

The blacklegged tick, also called the deer tick, is the primary vector of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium causing Lyme disease in the eastern and midwestern US.

A corn field shows plants with yellow-green leaves that wilt and die prematurely; roots appear pruned and plants fall over easily. The pest responsible is most likely:

Answer: Western corn rootworm larva

Western corn rootworm larvae feed on corn roots, causing pruning that leads to lodging, water/nutrient stress, and characteristic 'gooseneck' bending of stalks.

Which of the following is a biological control agent used against caterpillar pests in vegetable crops?

Answer: Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk)

Btk produces proteins toxic to lepidopteran larvae (caterpillars) when ingested, making it a widely used biological insecticide for caterpillar management in vegetables.

When identifying bed bugs, which feature distinguishes them from similar-looking bat bugs?

Answer: Bed bugs have shorter fringe hairs on the pronotum compared to bat bugs

Bat bugs have longer fringe hairs on their pronotum (the section behind the head) compared to bed bugs — this microscopic difference is the key diagnostic feature.

An applicator finds small, dusty exit holes in hardwood flooring and fine powder in the holes. This is most consistent with:

Answer: Powderpost beetle (Lyctidae or Bostrichidae) infestation

Powderpost beetles create small, round exit holes and leave fine talc-like frass (powder) inside galleries in seasoned hardwood, which is their diagnostic sign.

Which principle of IPM states that multiple pest management tactics should be combined to achieve sustainable control?

Answer: Integrated approach using biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools

IPM integrates biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tactics to manage pests sustainably, reducing reliance on any single method and minimizing environmental impact.

The 'push-pull' strategy in pest management involves:

Answer: Repelling pests away from the main crop while attracting them to a trap crop

The push-pull strategy uses repellent companion plants to 'push' pests off the main crop and attractive trap crops or lures to 'pull' and concentrate pests elsewhere for control.