What is the appropriate term for pest density levels impacting environmental integrity?

The term that best describes pest density levels impacting environmental integrity is "Environmental threshold." This concept refers to a specific level of pest presence at which the environmental impacts become significant enough to warrant concern or action. It is particularly relevant in the context of integrated pest management, where the focus is not just on controlling pests but also considering the broader ecological effects of those pests. Recognizing these thresholds helps in making informed decisions about pest management strategies in a way that balances agricultural productivity with environmental health and sustainability.

In contrast, other terms like control threshold relate more specifically to the point at which pest control measures should be implemented based on economic or aesthetic loss rather than environmental impact. The pest damage index is focused on the level of damage pests cause, and impact threshold generally deals with operational or management decisions rather than environmental integrity. Thus, the concept of an environmental threshold directly addresses the concern of pest populations affecting ecological balance.