Aerial 11F Practice Exam - Prep, Questions & Study Guide

The term that describes pesticides that control only specific species of pests is "selective." Selective pesticides are designed to target particular pest species without harming beneficial organisms, such as pollinators or natural predators. This characteristic makes them efficient for integrated pest management practices since they reduce the risk of damaging non-target species and promote ecological balance.

In contrast, broad-spectrum pesticides affect a wide range of pests, potentially harming beneficial species as well. Systemic refers to pesticides that are absorbed by the plant and distribute throughout its tissues, which can affect a variety of pests but does not specifically denote selectivity. Non-selective pesticides impact all organisms they come into contact with, making them less desirable when aiming for targeted pest control. Selective pesticides, therefore, are particularly valuable in sustainable agriculture and pest management strategies that prioritize environmental health while effectively managing pest populations.