Question

The survival strategies that are always beneficial for the overwintering pupal stage of western bean cutworm will be affected by which of the following?

a. the time it enters the soil,
b. the soil type.
c. the depth to which they burrow.
d. all of the above
e. none of the above

Answer 1

The overwintering success of the pupal stage of western bean cutworm is affected by the timing of soil entry, the type of soil, and the depth of burrowing, as these factors influence environmental conditions and protection against predators.

Step-by-step explanation:

The survival strategies beneficial for the overwintering pupal stage of western bean cutworm are affected by several factors. First, the time it enters the soil can influence its chances of survival, as the timing can affect the harshness of the environmental conditions the pupa will face. Furthermore, the soil type is significant because different soil properties can influence moisture retention and insulation against cold temperatures. Lastly, the depth to which they burrow also plays a crucial role. Digging deeper into the soil can mean more stable thermal conditions and protection from predators, which can increase the chances of survival during winter. Thus, all of these factors combined – the timing of soil entry, soil composition, and burrowing depth – impact the overwintering success of the pupal stage of western bean cutworm.