CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

What is the action taken against shipments infested with black stem rust?

1. A. Quarantine

2. B. Inspection

3. C. Treatment with pesticides

4. D. Immediate destruction

The correct answer is: A. Quarantine

The action taken against shipments infested with black stem rust is a quarantine. This is a critical measure in pest prevention and plant regulation because black stem rust is a serious fungal disease that can devastate crops, particularly wheat. When a shipment is found to be infested, quarantine prevents the further spread of the disease by restricting the movement of affected plants or materials. This allows for a more controlled approach to managing the infestation and safeguarding surrounding areas and crops from potential outbreaks. While inspection is a necessary process to identify infestations and treatment with pesticides may help manage certain pest issues, they do not provide the immediate protective measures that quarantine does. Immediate destruction can also be a response to severe infestations, but it is generally considered a more drastic action used when there's an imminent threat of broader spread or significant risk. Quarantine serves as a first line of defense to contain and control infestations effectively.