Illinois Field Crop Applicators Practice Test

What term describes the number of pests that should be managed to avoid economic loss?

1. Economic injury level

2. Action threshold

3. Pest control index

4. Threshold limit value

The correct answer is: Economic injury level

The correct answer, "Economic injury level," refers to the specific point at which the population of pests causes enough damage to crops or plants that it becomes financially beneficial for the grower to take action to manage those pests. Essentially, it defines the level of pest infestation that results in economic loss, guiding farmers and pest management professionals in making informed decisions about when to apply control measures. This concept is vital in integrated pest management (IPM) as it helps in resource allocation and minimizing unnecessary interventions, thereby promoting sustainable practices. In contrast, other terms like "action threshold" refer to the pest density at which control measures should be initiated, before reaching the economic injury level. The pest control index and threshold limit value are not commonly used terms in this specific context and are more broadly applicable in industrial settings or for laboratory exposure levels, making them less relevant for agricultural pest management decisions. Understanding the economic injury level helps practitioners prevent losses effectively while also considering the economic implications of pest management strategies.