Which pest type describes a pest that becomes a problem as the result of the control of another pest?

• A. Secondary pests
• B. Key pests
• C. Occasional pests
• D. Pest-like pests

Answer: (A)

The idea here is that certain pests emerge as problems because of the actions taken to control another pest. When you target and reduce or eliminate a primary pest, you can unintentionally remove the natural enemies or competitors that kept a different pest in check. As a result, that second pest can increase and become a new problem. This type of pest is called a secondary pest. For example, using broad-spectrum insecticides to control a major pest can kill predators that keep spider mites or thrips in balance, allowing those secondary pests to flare up. The other terms describe different situations: key pests are the pests that consistently cause significant damage and demand ongoing management; occasional pests appear only sporadically; pest-like pests isn’t a standard category used in pest management.