Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What are chemical controls commonly known as?

1. Herbicides and fungicides.

2. Pesticides, including repellents and attractants.

3. Biological agents.

4. Natural deterrents.

The correct answer is: Pesticides, including repellents and attractants.

Chemical controls are commonly known as pesticides, which encompass a broad category of substances designed to manage pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, and other organisms harmful to crops and structures. This classification includes various types of products such as insecticides specifically aimed at controlling insect populations, herbicides for managing unwanted vegetation, fungicides to combat fungal diseases, as well as repellents that deter pests and attractants used to lure them into traps. The term "pesticides" is inclusive of all these categories, reflecting the diverse mechanisms by which these chemicals operate to eliminate or control pest populations. This specificity highlights the broad application and utility of chemical controls in pest management, making the use of the term “pesticides” both accurate and comprehensive in this context. The other options refer to different categories or tools in pest management. For instance, herbicides and fungicides are specific types of pesticides but do not encompass the full range of chemical controls available. Biological agents refer to the use of natural organisms or their products to manage pests, while natural deterrents imply non-chemical approaches. Understanding the classification and usage of these terms is essential for effective pest management strategies.