Which insect is identified as a sorghum pest that can cause yield loss by feeding on developing grain?

Which insect is identified as a sorghum pest that can cause yield loss by feeding on developing grain?

• A. False chinch bugs
• B. Chinch bugs
• C. Sorghum headworms
• D. Greenbugs

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that some pests reduce sorghum yield by feeding directly on the grain as it develops inside the head. False chinch bugs are seed-feeding insects that attack the developing sorghum kernels inside the head, puncturing kernels and interrupting grain fill. This direct feeding during the grain development stage leads to shriveled kernels and lower yield, which is why they’re identified as a sorghum pest that can cause yield loss in this way. Chinch bugs, by contrast, mainly suck sap from stems and leaves and tend to injure plant vigor rather than cause direct grain loss by feeding on developing kernels. Sorghum headworms do damage by feeding on the grain in the head too, but the classic example of a pest that produces yield loss specifically through developing grain in sorghum is the false chinch bug. Greenbugs are aphid-like and damage leaves and can transmit viruses, not primarily grain development.

The main idea is that some pests reduce sorghum yield by feeding directly on the grain as it develops inside the head. False chinch bugs are seed-feeding insects that attack the developing sorghum kernels inside the head, puncturing kernels and interrupting grain fill. This direct feeding during the grain development stage leads to shriveled kernels and lower yield, which is why they’re identified as a sorghum pest that can cause yield loss in this way.

Chinch bugs, by contrast, mainly suck sap from stems and leaves and tend to injure plant vigor rather than cause direct grain loss by feeding on developing kernels. Sorghum headworms do damage by feeding on the grain in the head too, but the classic example of a pest that produces yield loss specifically through developing grain in sorghum is the false chinch bug. Greenbugs are aphid-like and damage leaves and can transmit viruses, not primarily grain development.