Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

Which practice would likely increase the likelihood of pesticide resistance?

1. Continual use of pesticides from the same chemical class

2. Rotating between different classes of pesticides

3. Applying integrated pest management techniques

4. Using pheromone traps to monitor pest populations

The correct answer is: Continual use of pesticides from the same chemical class

The likelihood of pesticide resistance is significantly increased when there is continual use of pesticides from the same chemical class. This practice leads to a scenario where pests are repeatedly exposed to the same active ingredients over time. If pests are resistant to that particular chemical, they survive, reproduce, and pass on their resistance traits to future generations. This cycle can create a population of pests that are increasingly difficult to manage, as they develop tolerance to the chemicals being used. On the other hand, strategies such as rotating between different classes of pesticides, applying integrated pest management techniques, and monitoring with pheromone traps all contribute to a more diversified approach to pest control. These methods help in reducing reliance on any single pesticide, which in turn lowers the risk of pests developing resistance to a specific class of chemicals. Thus, continuous use of the same chemical class stands out as a primary factor in increasing the potential for resistance.