EVERYDAY SCIENCE

SCIENCE

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
How is pesticide resistance related to evolution?
A
Humans have used chemicals to control pests which has now made them resistant to insecticides.
B
Using the wrong insecticide has made insects stronger
C
Humans have evolved a resistance to pesticides
D
Insects cannot evolve if pesticides are used.
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -We have simply caused pest populations to evolve, unintentionally applying artificial selection in the form of pesticides. Individuals with a higher tolerance for our poisons survive and breed, and soon resistant individuals outnumber the ones we can control.

Detailed explanation-2: -Subsequent uses of the pesticide increase the proportion of less-susceptible individuals in the population. Through this process of selection, the population gradually develops resistance to the pesticide. Worldwide, more than 500 species of insects, mites, and spiders have developed some level of pesticide resistance.

Detailed explanation-3: -Pesticide resistance is the result of natural selection caused by the pesticide. Pests vulnerable to the pesticide die quickly, and therefore more resistant individuals stay alive. Also, naturally occurring genetic modification may produce individuals with resistance to the pesticide.

Detailed explanation-4: -The best way to avoid resistance is to use IPM strategies to prevent the increase in resistant pest types, such as: Rotating crops to reduce the use of the same pesticides season after season. Reducing nutrient sources such as plant stubble that can harbor pathogens and insects.

Detailed explanation-5: -Step 1. Most pests die, only a small number survive; Step 2. Genes for resistance are passed on to the next generation; Step 3. Individuals with a resistant gene dominate the population and become insensitive to insecticide.

There is 1 question to complete.