Explanation

• Some organisms feed on dead and decaying organic matter instead of living organisms.
• These organisms are called saprotrophs.
• They play an important role in decomposition and nutrient recycling in ecosystems.
• Examples include fungi, bacteria, and some protists.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Plant diseases can be caused by biotic (living) or abiotic (non-living) factors.
• Diseases caused by abiotic factors like drought, temperature extremes, nutrient deficiency, or chemical pollutants are non-infectious.
• Examples of abiotic diseases: chlorosis, scorching, nutrient deficiencies.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Plants sometimes show abnormal growth due to external stimuli like insects, bacteria, or mechanical injury.
• This abnormal proliferation of stem tissue is called gall formation.
• Galls can occur on leaves, stems, or roots depending on the stimulus.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Pruning improves air circulation and sunlight penetration, reducing humidity that favors fungal growth.
• Mango anthracnose is a fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.
• It affects leaves, flowers, and fruits, leading to reduced yield.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Bacterial Leaf Blight (BLB) is a serious disease affecting rice crops.
• It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae.

Additional information:

• Rice Blast – Magnaporthe oryzae
• Sheath Blight – Rhizoctonia solani
• Brown Spot – Cochliobolus miyabeanus
• Tungro Virus – viral disease

Last verified on 24-01-2026

Explanation

• EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate): Liquid formulation mixed with water for spraying.
• WP (Wettable Powder): Powder that disperses in water before application.
• EC and WP are most popular due to ease of application and effectiveness.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Gurdaspur borer (Bissetia steniellus) is a major destructive pest of sugarcane.
• It attacks sugarcane between July and September.
• It causing the tops to dry and significant yield losses.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Biological control reduces chemical pesticide use, lowering environmental pollution.
• Effective in crops like cotton, vegetables, and fruit orchards.
• Sometimes combined with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for better results.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

• Oil-based insecticides are widely used in agriculture to control pests. 
• They contain active ingredients that can penetrate insect bodies effectively.
• The formulation type affects application method, efficiency, and safety.

Additional information:

• EC formulations provide uniform coverage and quick pest knockdown.
• Widely used for crops like cotton, vegetables, and fruit trees.

Last verified on 01-02-2026

Explanation

Rainfall classification:

• Arid: < 250 mm
• Semi-arid: 500–750 mm
• Sub-humid: 750–1,250 mm
• Humid: > 1,250 mm

Semi-arid regions often face drought risks and require efficient irrigation.

Last verified on 01-02-2026