Question

Flared squares in cotton is caused by:

• A. Spodoptera litura
• B. Helicoverpa armigera
• C. Earias vitella
• D. Pectinophora gossypiella

Hint:

Pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella): Causes flared squares in cotton.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Flared squares in cotton refer to the abnormal opening or shedding of young flower buds (squares) due to pest damage. The pink bollworm ({Pectinophora gossypiella) is the primary culprit, as its larvae bore into cotton squares, causing them to flare and drop. - {Spodoptera litura (1) (tobacco cutworm) mainly damages leaves. - {Helicoverpa armigera (2) (American bollworm) affects bolls but is less associated with flared squares. - {Earias vitella (3) (spotted bollworm) damages bolls and shoots, not primarily squares. Thus, option (4) is correct.