Agronomy Degree Practice Exam

What is reached when a pest infestation reaches the point where potential loss exceeds the cost of a chemical application?

1. IPM

2. Economic threshold

3. Spray point

4. Danger

The correct answer is: Economic threshold

The concept identified as the economic threshold is crucial in integrated pest management (IPM) practices, as it represents the point at which the financial losses caused by a pest infestation outweigh the costs associated with controlling that infestation, typically through chemical application. This threshold helps farmers and agronomists make informed decisions about when to implement pest control measures to mitigate losses effectively. Reaching this point involves an analysis of potential yield losses, pest population levels, and the cost of control measures. It informs practitioners that action is necessary to prevent further economic damage. Unlike terms such as IPM, which refers to a holistic approach involving multiple control strategies, or danger, which lacks specificity, the economic threshold provides a quantifiable and actionable benchmark for pest management. Thus, it serves as a critical guideline for agricultural decision-making, ensuring that interventions are both timely and cost-effective.