Which of the following pests are most likely to require identification in nursery stocks?

In the context of nursery stocks, the identification of pests is crucial for effective pest management and maintaining plant health. Insects represent a significant threat as they can cause direct harm to plants through feeding, as well as indirectly by transmitting diseases. Proper identification of insect pests allows for targeted control measures to be implemented, minimizing damage and ensuring the healthy growth of nursery plants.

While weeds can impact the overall ecosystem and compete for resources, their management often relies on broader cultural practices and herbicide applications rather than individual pest identification. Fungi and soil bacteria can also affect plant health and are important in certain contexts; however, insects are more diverse and often require specific identification to select the appropriate treatments. Therefore, focusing on insect identification is key in the care and maintenance of nursery stocks.