Which of the following statements is true regarding broad-spectrum pesticides?

Which of the following statements is true regarding broad-spectrum pesticides?

• A. They are effective against only one species
• B. They are targeted towards specific pests
• C. They can cause harm to beneficial organisms
• D. They have a negligible effect on non-target species

Answer: (C)

Broad-spectrum pesticides are designed to control a wide variety of pests, which includes not just the target species but also beneficial organisms. This broad effectiveness is what makes them suitable for managing various pest populations in agricultural or pest control situations. However, the downside is that while they may effectively eliminate harmful pests, they can also unintentionally harm beneficial insects, such as pollinators and natural predators of pests. For example, a broad-spectrum insecticide can kill not just pests like aphids but also honeybees and ladybugs, which are important for maintaining ecological balance and supporting crop health. The ability to affect multiple species, including non-target organisms, is a critical factor in the decision to use broad-spectrum versus more selective pest management strategies.

Broad-spectrum pesticides are designed to control a wide variety of pests, which includes not just the target species but also beneficial organisms. This broad effectiveness is what makes them suitable for managing various pest populations in agricultural or pest control situations. However, the downside is that while they may effectively eliminate harmful pests, they can also unintentionally harm beneficial insects, such as pollinators and natural predators of pests.

For example, a broad-spectrum insecticide can kill not just pests like aphids but also honeybees and ladybugs, which are important for maintaining ecological balance and supporting crop health. The ability to affect multiple species, including non-target organisms, is a critical factor in the decision to use broad-spectrum versus more selective pest management strategies.