Prepare for the Pest Control Technician Exam efficiently. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with detailed explanations and hints for each. Be exam-ready!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the purpose of narrow-spectrum pesticides?

  1. To eliminate all types of insects

  2. To target a specific type of insect or plant

  3. To enhance plant growth

  4. To affect a wide range of pests

The correct answer is: To target a specific type of insect or plant

Narrow-spectrum pesticides are designed to target a specific type of insect or plant, making them more effective for particular pest management scenarios. By focusing on specific pests, these pesticides minimize damage to beneficial organisms and reduce the risk of harming non-target species, including pollinators and natural pest predators. This targeted approach allows for greater precision in pest control, reducing the likelihood of resistance development in pest populations and decreasing the overall environmental impact of pesticide use. In contrast, options that mention eliminating all types of insects or affecting a wide range of pests refer to broad-spectrum pesticides, which do not discriminate between beneficial and harmful organisms. The choice regarding enhancing plant growth pertains to fertilizers rather than pest control, underscoring the specific purpose of narrow-spectrum pesticides within integrated pest management practices.