Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is coprophagy in the context of pesticide ingestion?

1. Feeding on other living insects

2. Feeding on plant material

3. Ingesting feces from other insects

4. Direct absorption of chemicals

The correct answer is: Ingesting feces from other insects

Coprophagy refers specifically to the behavior of ingesting feces from other organisms, particularly in the context of certain insect species. In relation to pesticide ingestion, this behavior is particularly significant because it can alter the dynamics of pesticide efficacy and exposure in pest management. For instance, if insects consume the feces of others that have ingested pesticides, they may inadvertently absorb those chemicals, which could impact their health or behavior. Understanding coprophagy is crucial for pest control strategies, as it highlights the potential for secondary exposure to pesticides, which can occur if a pest feeds on the excrement of another pest that may have been exposed to those substances. This understanding aids in predicting how certain insect populations may respond to pesticide applications and how pesticide residues might spread within a community of insects.