Minnesota Pesticide Applicator Practice Test 2025 - Free Pesticide Applicator Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term 'pest resurgence' specifically refers to the phenomenon where there is an increase in pest populations following pesticide treatment. This can occur for various reasons; for example, the application of pesticides may kill off some pests but can also disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem. If the treatment is not comprehensive or if it selectively eliminates certain pest species while leaving others unharmed, those surviving pests may have less competition for resources, allowing their population to grow more rapidly. This can lead to a situation where the overall pest population is even higher than before the pesticide was applied.

In contrast, complete eradication of pests, a decrease in pest resistance, and the introduction of beneficial insect populations do not align with the concept of pest resurgence. Complete eradication aims to eliminate all pests, which is not what resurgence implies. A decrease in pest resistance reflects an improvement in the effectiveness of pesticides rather than an increase in pest populations. Lastly, the introduction of beneficial insects can help manage pest populations and promote a healthy ecosystem but does not describe the resurgence of a pest population.