Question:

Which of the following is a Deodar defoliator?

Show Hint

Many forest pests have their host species name in their scientific name (e.g., $deodarae$, $shoreae$, $dalbergiae$). Use this as a hint if you are unsure!
  • Ectropis deodarae
  • Plecoptera reflexa
  • Hoplocerambyx spinicornis
  • Eutectona machaeralis
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the insect pest that primarily feeds on the foliage (defoliator) of the Deodar tree ($Cedrus$ $deodara$).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:


• $Ectropis$ $deodarae$, also known as the Deodar Geometrid or Looper, is a major pest of Deodar forests in the Himalayas. The larvae (caterpillars) feed aggressively on the needles of the tree.

• Severe infestations can lead to complete defoliation. While a single defoliation may not kill a healthy tree, repeated attacks weaken the tree, making it susceptible to secondary attacks by bark beetles or diseases.

• The name itself, "deodarae," is a helpful clue indicating its host specificity to $Cedrus$ $deodara$.

• As noted in the previous solution, Plecoptera reflexa affects Shisham, Hoplocerambyx affects Sal heartwood, and Eutectona affects Teak leaves.

• Control of this forest pest in the difficult Himalayan terrain is challenging and often relies on monitoring and occasional biological or chemical interventions during peak outbreak years.

Step 3: Final Answer:

$Ectropis$ $deodarae$ is a Deodar defoliator.
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