CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

During the inspection of Spanish moss for hibernating insects, you would look for:

1. eggs

2. pupa

3. larva

4. adults

The correct answer is: adults

When inspecting Spanish moss for hibernating insects, looking for adults is essential because insects in their adult form may be present in the plant material and can be indicators of potential infestations. Adults are often the life stage that is most recognizable and can give clear signs of which species might be living within or on the Spanish moss. Their presence can indicate established populations, and they can also be responsible for reproduction, which can lead to further infestations. While eggs, pupae, and larvae may also be present, they can be more challenging to detect and might not represent the immediate risk of infestation as clearly as the adult insects. Adults are typically larger and more mobile, making them easier to spot during an inspection. Moreover, targeting the inspection towards adults allows for more effective pest management strategies, as adults can migrate and spread pests to other plants. This emphasis on the adult stage is crucial in pest identification and management practices.