(a). State three effects of maize weevil on maize grains. (b) Explain briefly five general control measures of insect pests of grains in storage. (c) Name t...

Assessment: WAEC SSCE - Agricultural Science - 1998 (Essay) Subject: Agricultural Science

Question 1 Report

(a). State three effects of maize weevil on maize grains. (b) Explain briefly five general control measures of insect pests of grains in storage. (c) Name the vector for each of the following crop diseases: (i) groundnut rosette; (ii) maize streak; (iii) cassava mosaic. 

Answer Details

(a) Three effects of maize weevil on maize grains

  1. It bores holes into the grains and eats the endosperm, reducing the quantity and weight of the grains.
  2. It lowers the quality, market value and viability (germination) of the seeds.
  3. Its feeding and faeces cause heating, moulding and contamination of the stored grains.

(b) Five general control measures of insect pests of grains in storage

  1. Proper drying: dry the grains well to a low moisture content before storage to discourage pests.
  2. Use of insecticides: treat grains with approved storage insecticides/dusts.
  3. Fumigation: fumigate the store with chemicals such as phostoxin in an airtight room.
  4. Good store hygiene: keep the store clean, dry and airtight, and remove old infested stock before storing new grains.
  5. Use of resistant varieties and proper containers: store in airtight silos/bins and use hermetic bags, and inspect grains regularly.

(c) Vector for each crop disease

DiseaseVector
(i) Groundnut rosetteAphids
(ii) Maize streakLeafhopper
(iii) Cassava mosaicWhitefly

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