What does the term "pesticide resistance" refer to?

The term "pesticide resistance" specifically refers to the reduction in susceptibility of a pest population to a pesticide, which is exactly what the correct choice indicates. This phenomenon occurs when pests, such as insects, fungi, or weeds, evolve and develop mechanisms that enable them to survive exposures to a pesticide that would normally be lethal. Over time, through processes such as natural selection, the population of pests can become more resistant, meaning that the usual pesticide application may no longer be effective in controlling them.

This concept is critical in pest management because it underscores the importance of implementing integrated pest management strategies to prolong the efficacy of available pesticides, including rotating different classes of pesticides and using non-chemical control methods. Understanding pesticide resistance is essential for maintaining effective pest control and ensuring that agricultural practices remain sustainable over time.