Question

Match List I with List II
List I
A. Helicoverpa armigera
B. Scirpophaga nivella
C. Etiella zinckenella
D. Papilio demoleus
List II
I. Papilionidae
II. Phycitidae
III. Pyralidae
IV. Noctuidae
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A-II, B-I, C-IV, D-III
• B. A-IV, B-III, C-II, D-I
• C. A-I, B-IV, C-I, D-II
• D. A-III, B-IV, C-I, D-II

Hint:

To remember: Papilio demoleus is a butterfly belonging to Papilionidae (D-I). Helicoverpa armigera is a noctuid moth belonging to Noctuidae (A-IV). This allows you to quickly identify the correct matching option.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Taxonomic classification groups insect pests into specific families based on morpho-anatomical characteristics.
Identifying the family of key agricultural pests is essential for predicting their behavior, physiology, and control measures.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us match each insect species to its respective taxonomic family:
1. Helicoverpa armigera (A), commonly known as the cotton bollworm or gram pod borer, is a polyphagous pest of global importance.
It belongs to the family Noctuidae (IV), which comprises stout-bodied, mostly nocturnal moths.
Thus, A matches with IV.
2. Scirpophaga nivella (B) is the sugarcane top borer.
The larvae bore into the growing shoots of sugarcane, causing "dead hearts."
It belongs to the family Pyralidae (III) (specifically subfamily Crambinae, often treated under Crambidae, but historically grouped in Pyralidae).
Thus, B matches with III.
3. Etiella zinckenella (C) is the pea pod borer.
The larvae feed inside the green pods of leguminous crops.
It belongs to the family Phycitidae (II), which consists of small, slender moths whose larvae often feed on seeds and dry products.
Thus, C matches with II.
4. Papilio demoleus (D), the citrus butterfly, is a serious pest of citrus orchards.
The larvae feed on young citrus foliage.
It belongs to the family Papilionidae (I), which consists of large, brightly colored swallowtail butterflies.
Thus, D matches with I.
Combining these matches: A-IV, B-III, C-II, D-I.
This matches Option 2.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct taxonomic matching is A-IV, B-III, C-II, D-I.