Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Why should light traps primarily be used indoors?

1. They are effective for managing outdoor pests.

2. They attract and kill non-target insects.

3. They are safe for all environments.

4. They use high-voltage shocks to trap pests.

The correct answer is: They attract and kill non-target insects.

Light traps are primarily used indoors because they attract various flying insects, including pests, by emitting light that draws them in. Once the insects approach the trap, they can be captured or killed using adhesive surfaces or other methods. While the statement regarding non-target insects may raise a concern, the reality is that light traps target a wide array of flying insects, which can include both pest species and beneficial insects if used outdoors. The focus of using light traps indoors comes from their design and functionality. Indoor environments typically limit the variety of extraneous natural elements and potential interferences that outdoor traps would encounter, making it easier to manage insect populations effectively with fewer unwanted non-target interactions. Additionally, indoor light traps help in monitoring pest activity and can be useful in places such as restaurants, warehouses, and homes, where maintaining a pest-free environment is crucial. The other choices do not specifically represent the primary reason for indoor use: effective management of specific pest problems, the potential safety concerns outdoors, and the implications of non-target species interaction become secondary considerations in the context of how and where traps are effectively utilized.