Commodity Fumigation License Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a major group of pests controlled by soil fumigants?

1. Nematodes

2. Soil fungi

3. Insects

4. Aerial pests

The correct answer is: Aerial pests

Soil fumigants are specifically designed to target pests that dwell within the soil environment. Aerial pests, which include insects and organisms that target crops from above ground, do not primarily exist in the soil and therefore would not be affected by soil fumigants. Nematodes, soil fungi, and insects that establish themselves in the soil are all major groups of pests that soil fumigants aim to manage. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can cause significant damage to plant roots, while various soil fungi can lead to diseases in plants. Insects that undergo life stages in the soil, such as grubs or larvae, can also be effectively controlled with soil fumigants. Thus, aerial pests fall outside the scope of the effectiveness of these specific chemical treatments.