Boll Weevil Facts and Challenges

The video discusses the boll weevil, a pest from the beetle family, known for its destructive impact on cotton crops. Originating from Mexico, it spread to the US in the late 19th century, causing significant agricultural and economic damage, especially during the Great Depression. Despite its negative impact, the town of Enterprise, Alabama, erected a monument in its honor after diversifying their crops to peanuts, which proved profitable. Efforts to combat the pest include genetic modification of cotton and the Boll Weevil Eradication Program, which has significantly reduced its presence in the US.

What is the scientific name of the boll weevil?

• Anthonamus grandis

• Weevilus maximus

• Bollus weevilus

• Cottonus pestus

What is the most distinguishing physical feature of the boll weevil?

• Its large size

• Its bright red color

• Its long snout

• Its colorful wings

How does the boll weevil protect its eggs from pesticides?

• By laying them inside the cotton boll

• By hiding them in tree bark

• By covering them with leaves

• By laying them underground

How many generations of boll weevils can occur in one cotton growing season?

• 10

• 13

• 8

• 5

Where did the boll weevil originally come from?

• Brazil

• Canada

• Mexico

• United States

What year did the boll weevil cross into the United States?

• 1902

• 1912

• 1892

• 1882

What crop did farmers in Enterprise, Alabama switch to after the boll weevil infestation?

• Corn

• Wheat

• Soybeans

• Peanuts

What unique event does Enterprise, Alabama hold annually to celebrate the boll weevil?

• Boll Weevil Parade

• Boll Weevil Fair

• Boll Weevil Day

• Boll Weevil Fall Festival

What was one of the first methods used to combat the boll weevil?

• Using natural oils

• Importing predatory birds

• Arsenic sprays

• Genetic modification

Which state still faces challenges with boll weevil infestations?

• California

• Texas

• Georgia

• Florida