A biocontrol agent to be a part of an integrated pest management should be
Answer: (D) Species-specific and inactive on non-target organisms. Answer: (4) Species-specific and inactive on non-target organisms Solution: Ideal IPM biocontrol agents (like Nucleopolyhedrovirus baculoviruses) are species-specific and narrow-spectrum, with no negative impact on non-target plants, mammals, birds, fish or beneficial insects.
- A.Species-specific and symbiotic
- B.Free living and broad spectrum
- C.Narrow spectrum and symbiotic
- D.Species-specific and inactive on non-target organisms✓
Correct Answer
(D) Species-specific and inactive on non-target organisms
Solution & Explanation
Answer: (4) Species-specific and inactive on non-target organisms Solution: Ideal IPM biocontrol agents (like Nucleopolyhedrovirus baculoviruses) are species-specific and narrow-spectrum, with no negative impact on non-target plants, mammals, birds, fish or beneficial insects. This selectivity is what makes them desirable when beneficial insects are being conserved. NCERT Reference: Ch 8, p.157, line 36 — "species-specific, narrow spectrum insecticidal applications."