(a) Name the organism which causes the damage observe on each of specimen J (Maize Weevil), K (Yam Beetle), L (Virus) and M (Fungus). (b) State three ways i...

(a) Organism that caused the damage on each specimen

• Specimen J: Maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais).
• Specimen K: Yam beetle.
• Specimen L: Cassava mosaic virus.
• Specimen M: Fruit rot fungus (of tomato).

(b) Three ways the maize weevil (Specimen J) is of economic importance

1. It destroys stored maize, causing food loss and food shortage.
2. It destroys seed viability and reduces seed germination.
3. It reduces the market value and quantity of produce, lowering income and raising the cost of production through control measures.

(c) Two ways of controlling each organism

Maize weevil:

• Store the grain in air-tight containers.
• Treat the grain with an appropriate insecticide or store-protectant dust.

Yam beetle:

• Treat the yam setts with an appropriate insecticide before planting.
• Practise crop rotation.

Cassava mosaic virus:

• Plant resistant varieties and clean, disease-free stem cuttings.
• Uproot and burn infected plants and maintain farm sanitation.

Fruit rot fungus:

• Grow resistant varieties and remove infected plants.
• Stake the tomato plants and treat the soil with a copper-based fungicide.