Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

How do Chitin Synthesis Inhibitors function?

1. They disrupt the insect's nervous system

2. They block growth hormones

3. They hinder chitin production

4. They prevent the formation of eggs

The correct answer is: They hinder chitin production

Chitin synthesis inhibitors function by specifically targeting the process of chitin production within insects. Chitin is a crucial structural component of the exoskeleton in arthropods, including insects, and is necessary for their growth and development. When these inhibitors are applied, they interfere with the enzymes or pathways responsible for synthesizing chitin. As a result, the insect's ability to form a properly structured exoskeleton is compromised, leading to issues such as failure to molt correctly or weakened structural integrity of the skin, which ultimately impacts survival and growth. This mechanism is particularly effective in controlling insect populations since it targets a vital aspect of their biology without affecting other organisms that do not rely on chitin.