Pest Control Technician Practice Exam

What is a primary function of desiccants in pest control?

1. To stimulate pest growth

2. To interrupt the reproductive cycle of pests

3. To cause loss of body fluids in pests

4. To increase the mobility of pests

The correct answer is: To cause loss of body fluids in pests

Desiccants play a critical role in pest control primarily because they cause loss of body fluids in pests. These substances work by absorbing moisture from the environment and from the pests themselves, leading to dehydration. In the case of insects, desiccants penetrate their exoskeleton, drawing out moisture and thus disrupting their ability to retain water. This process ultimately results in the death of the pest due to severe dehydration. The use of desiccants is particularly effective because it targets the physical condition of the pests rather than their behavioral patterns or lifecycle stages. By causing desiccation, these agents can be employed strategically in areas where moisture levels support pest infestations, making them a valuable tool in a pest management program.