What is the implication of indirect pesticide application?

Indirect pesticide application refers to methods where the pesticide is not applied directly onto the target pest but rather in a way that the pest may encounter the chemical through other means, such as residues on plants or in the environment. This method can lead to unintended consequences, particularly concerning non-target organisms.

In the case of choice C, the focus is on how non-target organisms, such as bees, can be harmed when the pesticide affects plants or surfaces that these organisms may come into contact with. For instance, bees that pollinate flowers treated with pesticides may ingest residues or come into contact with contaminated surfaces, leading to toxicity and potentially harming their populations.

This highlights the importance of considering environmental impact when applying pesticides, emphasizing the need for integrated pest management strategies that mitigate risks to beneficial insects and other non-target species. Understanding this consequence helps pest managers make more informed decisions that balance pest control with ecosystem health.