Question

Given below are two statements
Statement I: Fallowing causes nematode death due to starvation and desiccation
Statement II: Fallowing is very effective in dry and hot areas
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are true
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are false
• C. Statement I is true but Statement II is false
• D. Statement I is false but Statement II is true

Hint:

Fallowing controls nematodes through starvation and desiccation, and is highly effective in hot, dry regions where soil temperatures can reach levels that are lethal to nematodes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Fallowing is a cultural management practice where land is left uncultivated and free of plant growth for a period of time.
This practice helps control soil-borne plant-parasitic nematodes by removing their food source.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements regarding the mechanism and effectiveness of fallowing:
1. Statement I: Keeping the land free of vegetation deprives obligate plant-parasitic nematodes of host roots.
This leads to the starvation and death of infective juveniles.
Additionally, tilling the soil during fallow periods exposes deeper soil layers to the sun, leading to desiccation of the nematodes.
Therefore, Statement I is correct.
2. Statement II: Fallowing is particularly effective in dry and hot areas (such as arid and semi-arid regions).
The combination of high summer temperatures, low soil moisture, and solar radiation accelerates the desiccation of nematodes, their eggs, and cysts in the upper soil layers.
Therefore, Statement II is correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement I and Statement II are true.