Why are we using fewer pesticides for roach control?

Why are we using fewer pesticides for roach control?

• A. Regulations have no effect
• B. Resistance more common
• C. Roaches are disappearing
• D. Pesticides are too expensive

Answer: (B)

Pesticide resistance is the key idea. When roaches are exposed to the same chemical repeatedly, individuals with genetic traits that let them survive the treatment live on and reproduce. Over time, the population becomes less susceptible to that pesticide, so the chemical stops working as well. Because of that, relying on the same pesticide isn’t effective, and programs use fewer pesticides overall, mixing in other strategies like sanitation to remove food and water sources, sealing entry points to prevent infestation, monitoring to know where roaches are, and rotating different active ingredients to slow further resistance. The other options don’t fit as well—regulations can influence usage, roaches aren’t disappearing, and cost alone isn’t the main reason for reduced chemical use.

Pesticide resistance is the key idea. When roaches are exposed to the same chemical repeatedly, individuals with genetic traits that let them survive the treatment live on and reproduce. Over time, the population becomes less susceptible to that pesticide, so the chemical stops working as well. Because of that, relying on the same pesticide isn’t effective, and programs use fewer pesticides overall, mixing in other strategies like sanitation to remove food and water sources, sealing entry points to prevent infestation, monitoring to know where roaches are, and rotating different active ingredients to slow further resistance. The other options don’t fit as well—regulations can influence usage, roaches aren’t disappearing, and cost alone isn’t the main reason for reduced chemical use.