What does pesticide resistance refer to?

Pesticide resistance refers to the ability of pests to adapt over time to survive applications of pesticides that were previously effective against them. When pesticides are applied repeatedly, some individuals within a pest population may possess genetic traits that allow them to withstand the effects of the chemical. As these resistant individuals survive and reproduce, the overall population may become increasingly resistant, making pest control efforts more challenging.

This phenomenon highlights the importance of integrated pest management strategies that diversify control methods and reduce reliance on a single type of pesticide. The goal is to minimize the chances of resistance development by rotating different classes of pesticides, using biological controls, and adopting cultural practices that help manage pest populations effectively and sustainably.

The other options do not accurately define pesticide resistance. For instance, reduced application rates and costs do not directly relate to how pests adapt to chemicals. Immediate death of all targeted pests suggests effectiveness, which contrasts with the concept of resistance where some pests survive treatment. Lastly, consistency in pest control effectiveness implies that control measures are working effectively over time, which would not be the case if resistance were developing in the pest populations.