Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What should be monitored in floor drains during inspections?

1. Water levels and obstructions

2. Cockroaches and various flies

3. Vegetation and mold

4. Smells and odors

The correct answer is: Cockroaches and various flies

Monitoring cockroaches and various flies in floor drains is crucial because these insects often thrive in damp environments, making floor drains a potential breeding ground. Cockroaches are known to infest areas near moisture sources, where they can find both food and shelter. The presence of flies, particularly drain flies, can indicate organic matter accumulation, which provides a suitable habitat for their larvae. Regular inspections of floor drains for these pests can help identify sanitation issues or hidden infestations early on. Focusing on the presence of specific pests allows for targeted pest management strategies and can contribute to maintaining a hygienic environment. While monitoring water levels and obstructions is important for drainage functionality, and observing smells and odors can indicate other issues, these factors do not directly relate to pest presence or pest management practices like monitoring for cockroaches and flies does. Similarly, vegetation and mold may signal moisture problems or poor drainage but are less significant in terms of immediate pest threat.