Question 4
(a) Discuss aphids as a crop pest under the following headings:
(i) three crops attacked;
(ii) two economic importance;
(iii) two prevention and control measures. (7 marks)
(b) List five characteristics of farm animals that could be used for selection in animal
improvement. (5 marks)
(c) Explain each of the following terms as used in forest management:
(i) deforestation;
(ii) taungya farming. (4 marks)
(d) Define the term horticulture. (2 marks)
Observation
Many candidates were unable to discuss aphids under the listed headings as well as explain
deforestation and taungya farming.
The expected answers include:
4. (a) Discussion on aphids as a crop pest
(i) Crops attacked
- Cowpea - Okra
- Soyabean - Melon
- Groundnut - Pumpkin
- Cotton - Cucumber
(ii) Economic importance
- Stunted growth
- Reduce crop quality/market value of produce
- Increase cost of production
- Transmit diseases to crops
- Reduce crop yield
- Cause crop failure / death
- Reduce farmer’s income / profit
(iii) Prevention and control measures
- Spray with appropriate insecticides / pesticides
- Uproot and burn infected plants
- Early planting and harvesting
- Practise crop rotation
- Regular weeding
(b) Characteristics of farm animals that could be used for selection in animal
improvement
- Body size/conformation - Good mothering ability
- Fertility rate / prolific - Growth rate
- Low mortality rate - Litter size
- Ability to work - Low morbidity rate
- Rate of egg laying - Longevity
- Colour of coat/hide and skin - Colour of egg shell
- Milk production - Milk quality
- Resistance to diseases / Healthy - Fat and meat quality
- Ability to withstand adverse environmental conditions
- Pest tolerance
(c) Explanation of terms in forest management
(i) Deforestation
This is the indiscriminate felling of forest trees for various purposes.
(ii) Taungya farming
This is a management practice which involves planting of crops and some
forest trees at the same time until the canopy of the trees close up.
OR
This is a management practice which involves planting of arable crops at the early stages of forest establishment.
(d) Definition of horticulture
Horticulture is the study and practice of growing fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants.