What are some key symptoms of pest damage in crops?

The symptoms of pest damage in crops can be quite distinct, and one of the primary indicators is indeed the presence of wilting, discoloration, feeding holes, and reduced yield.

Wilting often occurs when pests damage the plant tissues or roots, disrupting water and nutrient transport. Discoloration can be a sign of stress caused by pest activity, as insects may feed on leaves, causing them to lose their green color and vitality. Feeding holes are a direct indicator of pest presence and activity, as they physically damage plant tissue. Lastly, reduced yield often results from pests weakening plants over time, impacting their ability to flower, fruit, or produce seeds effectively.

In contrast, the other options describe conditions that indicate healthy plant growth or successful reproduction rather than signs of pest damage. Increased plant height and green foliage, vibrant colors, and uniform distribution of flowers and fruits are all characteristics of healthy crops that are thriving and not being affected by pest infestations. Thus, the focus on observable damage signs in the correct response highlights the critical relationship between pest presence and crop health.