Which of the following pests primarily affects cole crops?

The correct answer is the cabbage looper, which is a caterpillar pest specifically known for targeting cole crops. Cole crops include vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, and they are particularly vulnerable to this pest during their growth stages. Cabbage loopers feed on the leaves of these plants, creating characteristic holes and causing significant damage if left unchecked. They can also contribute to the transmission of diseases, further impacting cole crops.

In contrast, the other pests listed have varying host plants and are not primarily associated with cole crops. The corn earworm, for example, is known to target corn and other flowering plants, making it less relevant to cole crops. Western flower thrips primarily affect flowering plants and can vector viruses but do not specifically target cole crops. Spider mites may infest a range of plants but typically do not have a strong preference for cole crops over others. Understanding the specific pests that affect certain crops is essential for implementing effective pest management strategies.