Question

The diagram below shows a soil borne pest that attacks plant roots

1. Identify the pest
2. State 2 symptoms of attack by the pest in tomato production
3. State 2 control measures for the pest

Answer 1

1. Root nematode/ red worm
2.    
   • Root swells/ formation of root galls
   • Wilting of crop even when moisture is adequate
   • Retarded growth/ stunted growth of shoots/ plants
   • Discolouration of leaves
3.   
   • Crop rotation
   • Use of nematicides
   • Fumigation of soil
   • Soil solarisation
   • Closed season
   • Plant resistant crop varieties