Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is the primary function of larvicides in pest control?

1. To kill adult insects

2. To kill insect eggs

3. To specifically target insect larvae

4. To repel pests from treated areas

The correct answer is: To specifically target insect larvae

The primary function of larvicides in pest control is to specifically target insect larvae. Larvicides are designed to disrupt the development of larvae of various insect species, preventing them from maturing into adults that can reproduce and cause further infestations. By targeting the immature stage, larvicides effectively reduce the population of pests before they have the chance to reach their adult form, thereby breaking the life cycle of the pest. This targeted approach is crucial because larvae are often more vulnerable and susceptible to specific chemicals that are designed to interfere with their growth and development. In contrast, the other options involve different pest control mechanisms. While some insecticides may kill adult insects or target eggs, larvicides have a distinct role specifically focused on acting during the larval stage. Additionally, repellents serve a different purpose by preventing pests from approaching a treated area, rather than targeting them directly in their developmental stages. Thus, the specific targeting of larvae makes larvicides a strategic choice in integrated pest management practices.