Theory question 104
Crop Diseases(a) Discuss maize smut disease under the following headings: (i) causal organism; (ii) mode of transmission; (iii) two symptoms; (iv) two cultural control measures.
(b) Enumerate four forest management practices in West Africa.
(c)(i) State four classes of farm animals based on their uses. (ii) Give one example of each class stated in 4(c)(i).
Show the model answer
(a)(i) A fungus, Ustilago maydis.
(ii) Spores carried by wind and rain splash; spores survive in soil and crop debris; infected seed.
(iii) Any two: swollen whitish galls on ears, tassels, stems and leaves; galls burst to release black powdery spores; reduced or no grain; stunted plants.
(iv) Any two: crop rotation; remove and burn infected plants before galls burst; plant resistant varieties; field sanitation; avoid injury to plants; balanced fertilizer use.
(b) Any four: regeneration/reforestation; afforestation; selective exploitation/felling; taungya system; forest reserves and regulations; control of bush burning; establishing forest plantations; licensing of timber contractors.
(c) Classes with an example each: work animals – horse, donkey, bullock; meat (beef) animals – cattle, goat, pig; milk (dairy) animals – cattle, goat; egg producers – chicken, duck; wool/fibre – sheep; pets/companions – dog, cat; game/recreation – horse.
Give one animal example for each class.