What is the inherent ability of a species to survive and reproduce after pesticide treatments?

• A. Tolerance
• B. Resistance
• C. Immunity
• D. Adaptation

Answer: (A)

Tolerance is the natural ability of some individuals in a pest population to survive and reproduce after pesticide exposure. When a pesticide is applied, those with traits that help endure the chemical are more likely to survive and pass those traits on to their offspring. Over time, the population can become more capable of withstanding similar treatments. This idea centers on inherent variation present before exposure.

Resistance differs because it describes a population that has evolved reduced susceptibility specifically through genetic changes after exposure, often with continued selection. Immunity would imply complete protection to toxins or disease, which isn’t what’s described here. Adaptation is a broader evolutionary process that can lead to tolerance or resistance, but the statement points to the specific trait of surviving a pesticide treatment, which is tolerance.