CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

Which stage of the melonworm is involved in overwintering?

1. Larval stage

2. Egg stage

3. Pupal stage

4. Adult stage

The correct answer is: Pupal stage

The correct answer is the pupal stage because this is when the melonworm undergoes a form of dormancy that allows it to survive adverse environmental conditions, including winter weather. During overwintering, the pupae are typically found in protected areas such as in the soil or debris, where they can remain dormant until conditions become favorable again for them to emerge and continue their life cycle. In the case of the melonworm, which is a pest affecting cucurbit crops, understanding its overwintering behavior is crucial for managing populations and preventing crop damage. The ability of the pupal stage to withstand cold temperatures and other environmental stresses is key to the pest's survival and subsequent resurgence in warmer months. While the egg stage, larval stage, and adult stage are important for the overall lifecycle of the melonworm, they do not possess the same capacity for dormancy as the pupal stage, making the pupal stage specifically notable for its role in overwintering.