Economic threshold

Pronunciation
/ek-uh-nom-ik thresh-hold/
Category
Pest Management
Plural
Economic thresholds

Definition

The pest population density at which a pest control action should be taken to prevent economic losses.

Etymology

A combination of economic and ecological factors determining the point where pest control becomes economically viable.

Example

The economic threshold for corn earworm in corn is around 10 caterpillars per 100 plants.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Economic thresholds are calculated based on the crop's tolerance to pest damage and the cost of control measures.