How pesticide resistant insects came about as result of evolution?
We have simply caused pest populations to evolve, unintentionally applying artificial selection in the form of pesticides. Individuals with a higher tolerance for our poisons survive and breed, and soon resistant individuals outnumber the ones we can control.
How pesticides use can lead to the evolution of resistance in pests?
When a pesticide is first used, a small proportion of the pest population may survive exposure to the material due to their distinct genetic makeup. These individuals pass along the genes for resistance to the next generation.
Is pesticide resistance evolution?
Furthermore, pesticide resistance is a key example of evolution in action, with rapid evolution under novel selective pressures (Palumbi, 2001), and has the potential to contribute to fundamental understanding of general evolutionary processes.
How do pesticide affects the insect?
Many synthetic insecticides increase oxidative stress, and this could have severe impacts on the production of some antimicrobial peptides in insects, but research is needed to determine the actual effects. Pesticides can also affect grooming behaviors, rendering insects more susceptible to disease.
What causes insecticide resistance?
Mechanisms of Resistance to Insecticides. There are two very important and widespread mechanisms of resistance that have been uncovered by insect toxicology researchers: (1) enhanced rates or pathways of detoxification by the insect, and (2) altered target site.
Who defines insecticide resistance?
Insecticide resistance is defined by the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) [31] as ‘a heritable change in the sensitivity of a pest population that is reflected in the repeated failure of a product to achieve the expected level of control when used according to the label recommendation for that pest …
What are the advantages and disadvantages of IPM?
IPM reduces the risk of this occurring as the methods adopted by IPM are natural. The use of pesticides may eradicate the pest population. However, there is a risk that non-target organisms are also affected, which can result in species loss. IPM can eradicate pests while maintaining the balance of the ecosystem [6].
Is the main mechanism of insect resistance?
Metabolic resistance is the most common mechanism and often presents the greatest challenge. Insects use their internal enzyme systems to break down insecticides. Resistant strains may possess higher levels or more efficient forms of these enzymes.
