Selective pesticides are a type of pesticide that target a specific pest species. These pesticides have a minimal impact on organisms that are not targeted by the pesticide.
Selective pesticides can be applied directly to plants or to the surface of the soil. They are considered to be preferable over a broader ranging pesticide as they are thought to be safer for non-targeted species.
Selective pesticides are also known as narrow spectrum pesticides.
Harmful pests, like aphids, can damage leaves and stunt plant growth. Pesticides are used to kill a variety of plant pests and organisms. However, pesticides that are considered broad spectrum can have adverse effects on organisms other than those targeted.
Many animals, from beneficial insects like bees, to cats and dogs, can be adversely affected by pesticides. Selective pesticides are thought to be more ideal as they typically do not affect any organism other than the ones they target. Some examples of selective pesticides are Pirimicarb, which targets aphids, and Bt, which targets small caterpillars.
It should be noted that selective pesticides, like all pesticides, have a level of toxicity for humans and other animals. For example, some pesticides that target rodents can be poisonous to dogs that may accidentally ingest them. Additionally, selective pesticides are not available for all types of pests, and a broader range pesticide may be needed.
Synonyms
Narrow spectrum pesticides
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