MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is a contact pesticide?

1. Pesticides that affect pests when ingested

2. Pesticides that harm pests through contact

3. Pesticides that require soil absorption

4. Pesticides that have a delayed action

The correct answer is: Pesticides that harm pests through contact

A contact pesticide is defined as a type of pesticide that harms or kills pests upon direct physical contact. This means that the active ingredients in these pesticides work by penetrating the outer body of the pest when they come into contact with the pesticide, immediately affecting the pest's bodily functions. This action is typically rapid, making contact pesticides effective for quick knockdown of pest populations. In contrast, other types of pesticides may operate through different mechanisms. For instance, pesticides that affect pests when ingested work by being consumed, requiring the pests to eat the pesticide for it to take effect. Pesticides that need soil absorption must enter the plant's system through the roots, which is different from the direct contact method. Lastly, pesticides with delayed action may take time to show effects after application, unlike contact pesticides that act swiftly upon contact with the target pest.