Insecticide resistance

Pronunciation: /in-sek-tuh-sahyd ri-zis-tuhns/

Category: Behavior

Plural: Insecticide resistances

Definition

The ability of an insect or other arthropod population to withstand exposure to a dose of an insecticide that would kill a normal (susceptible) population.

Etymology

From the Latin words 'insectum' meaning 'cut into, cut up,' and 'resistere' meaning 'to stand back, withstand'.

Example

The development of insecticide resistance in agricultural pests is a major challenge for farmers.

Related Terms

Resistance
Pesticide
Insecticide

Usage Notes

Insecticide resistance can be a result of genetic alterations, and it can vary between species.