Soursop, a delicious fruit in Grenada, is essential for making ice cream and other local products. However, local farmers face significant challenges from pests like the croton scale, which weaken soursop trees and threaten their yield. This pest has become a serious concern, prompting farmers to take action to protect their crops.
In response to the growing pest problem, Grenadian farmers are utilizing biological control methods. They are importing ladybird beetles, which are natural predators of the croton scale. These beetles will help reduce the pest population without the use of harmful chemicals.
Farmers are working with scientists to keep their soursop trees healthy. Together, they aim to control pests effectively and ensure the fruit remains a key part of Grenada's economy.
Difficult words
- soursop — a tropical fruit with sweet, juicy flesh.soursop trees
- yield — the amount of fruit produced by a plant.
- pest — an insect or animal harmful to plants.pests
- importing — bringing goods from another country.
- biological — related to living organisms.biological control
- predators — animals that hunt and eat other animals.
- protect — to keep safe from harm.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think about using natural predators for pest control?
- How does pest control affect local economies?
- Why is it important to protect local produce like soursop?
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