Pesticide Resistance
Pesticide resistance occurs when pests, such as insects or weeds, develop the ability to survive exposure to chemicals designed to kill them. This happens through natural selection, where some individuals have genetic traits that make them less susceptible to the pesticide. Over time, these resistant pests reproduce, leading to a population that is harder to control.
The widespread use of pesticides, like glyphosate or DDT, can accelerate this process. Farmers and agricultural professionals must adapt their strategies, often using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, to combat resistance and maintain effective pest control while minimizing environmental impact.