Which pest species affects rice as a leafminer?

The correct answer is the species that specifically affects rice as a leafminer, which is Hydrellia griseola. This pest is known for its leaf-mining behavior, which results in the formation of distinct mines on the leaves of rice plants. These mines can lead to reduced photosynthesis, weakening the plant and potentially causing significant yield losses.

In the context of agricultural pest management, it is crucial to identify specific pests and their behaviors to implement effective control strategies. Hydrellia griseola's association with rice is well-documented, making it a significant pest for rice producers.

The other species listed do not share the same relationship with rice as a leafminer. Liriomyza sativae is a leafminer known for affecting other crops, but not primarily rice. C. uhleri typically pertains to other forms of agricultural damage unrelated to leaf mining in rice. Fusarium oxysporum is a fungal pathogen rather than an insect pest, causing wilt diseases in various plants but with no association to leaf mining in rice. Understanding these distinctions is key for effective pest management and crop protection in rice cultivation.