Question

Pebrine is a disease of

• A. silk worm
• B. lac insect
• C. honey bee
• D. fish.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Pebrine is a disease that affects the silk worm, which is scientifically referred to as Bombyx mori. It is caused by a microsporidian parasite called Nosema bombycis. This disease is highly contagious and can cause significant damage to sericulture, the practice of rearing silkworms for silk production.

Here's a brief description of why "silk worm" is the correct answer, and how we can eliminate the other options:

1. Silk worm: Pebrine disease primarily affects silk worms. It is characterized by black spots on the body, reduced cocoon production, and can even lead to the death of larvae, pupae, or adult moths. Prevention includes maintaining hygiene in silkworm rearing houses and using only disease-free eggs.
2. Lac insect: This option is incorrect because lac insects produce lac (a resinous secretion). They are not known to suffer from Pebrine disease. Diseases in lac insects generally differ in nature and causative agents compared to those affecting silkworms.
3. Honey bee: Honey bees are susceptible to various other diseases such as Varroa mite infestation, American foulbrood, and Nosema disease, but Pebrine disease does not affect them.
4. Fish: Fish can suffer from diseases like Ichthyophthirius (Ich) and dropsy, but Pebrine disease is not related to fish. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

In conclusion, Pebrine is a disease of the silkworm. Effective management strategies include implementing control measures against infection and maintaining optimum environmental conditions during rearing.