What phenomenon occurs when a pest becomes resistant to multiple classes of pesticides?

The phenomenon where a pest develops resistance to multiple classes of pesticides is known as multiple resistance. This occurs when a pest has been exposed to different types of pesticides over time, and through selection pressure, individuals with genetic mutations that confer resistance survive and reproduce, leading to a population that is resistant to multiple chemical mechanisms of action.

This situation can emerge when pests are subjected to various pesticide products that target different biochemical pathways or modes of action. As a result, managing such pests becomes increasingly difficult, necessitating a more integrated pest management approach that might include rotating chemical classes, employing non-chemical control measures, or using more sustainable practices to reduce the selection pressure of pesticides.

Understanding multiple resistance is crucial for developing effective pest management strategies, as relying heavily on one class of pesticides can worsen the resistance issue. This concept underscores the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and early intervention to mitigate resistance development.