Which category of pesticides is specifically designed to target insects?

The category of pesticides specifically designed to target insects is insecticides. These chemicals are formulated to effectively disrupt the life processes of insects, whether by targeting their nervous system, growth regulation, or metabolic functions. Insecticides may have various modes of action and are used in agricultural practices to manage pest populations that can damage crops and carry diseases.

In contrast, other categories such as herbicides focus on controlling unwanted plant species, fungicides are used to combat fungal infections, and rodenticides are designed to control rodent populations. Each of these categories serves a unique purpose in pest management, but insecticides are the specific agents developed for the control of insect pests.