Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

What is a significant characteristic of insect growth regulators?

1. High toxicity

2. Environmental safety

3. Immediate action on adult insects

4. Long residual effects

The correct answer is: Environmental safety

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) are known for their environmental safety, which makes them a valuable tool in pest management. These substances work by disrupting the normal growth and development of insects, particularly during their immature stages, which prevents them from reaching maturity and reproducing. This mechanism means that IGRs can be used in sensitive environments without posing significant risks to non-target organisms, including humans, pets, and beneficial insects. The environmental safety of IGRs is particularly important for integrated pest management strategies that aim to reduce chemical use and minimize ecological impacts. Unlike traditional insecticides that may exhibit high toxicity to a wide range of organisms, IGRs are designed to target specific hormonal pathways that are present only in insects, thus reducing the likelihood of unintended harm. In contrast, other characteristics like high toxicity, immediate action on adult insects, and long residual effects do not align with IGRs. They do not provide immediate knockdown of adult insects since their action is more gradual, focusing on the lifecycle of the pests rather than directly killing them upon contact. Furthermore, although IGRs may have some residual activity, they are generally not known for long-lasting effects compared to more conventional insecticides. Therefore, their unique attribute of ensuring safety for the environment