Question

Identify three ways we create pests by the methods we use in agriculture.

Answer 1

The three major ways we create pests in agriculture are -

• By using Chemical Insecticides - Widespread use of chemical insecticides may seem very effective at first as a large number of pests can be killed. However, there are always a few individuals which are immune to a certain insecticide, when they reproduce and increase in numbers over time, the checmical insecticide previously used becomes redundant. This leads to the use of a new chemical insecticide and the cycle continues. A better alternative is to use biocontrol methods to control the insect population.
• Crop Sowing Times - To gain high yields, the crops have to be sown on time so that they mature and yield fruits in the right season. If the crops are sowed sooner or later than the designated ideal sowing times, the crops may be attacked by pests depending upon the changing climatic conditions. Some pests only affect mature crops, some affect seedlings and some attack only the fruits. Different seasons have different pests, so if the time of sowing of crops is not regulated, we may undergo losses in yields.
• Crop Storage Practices - The yield should be stored hygienically under low moisture conditions to prevent disease. They should be kept in steel silos or a sealed warehouse to prevent damage by rats. However, if stored in dark moist places, in gunny bags, the crops may rot or there may be a rat infestation in the warehouse, proper elevated areas with pest repelling agents should be used.