Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

How does a systemic insecticide act on the pest?

1. A systemic flows inside a treated plant and kills the pest when the pest eats the plant

2. A systemic enters the pest and attacks only a particular body system

3. A systemic kills insect pests on contact

4. A systemic is ineffective against pests

The correct answer is: A systemic flows inside a treated plant and kills the pest when the pest eats the plant

A systemic insecticide operates by being absorbed through the plant and then distributing itself throughout the plant tissue. This means that when a pest feeds on the treated plant, it consumes the insecticide that has moved into the plant’s vascular system. This method is particularly effective for targeting sap-sucking pests, such as aphids or whiteflies, which feed on the plant's fluids. Because the systemic insecticide is present in most of the plant, it can provide prolonged protection against pests, even those that are not immediately visible. The other choices do not accurately describe the action of systemic insecticides. The option that suggests targeting only a specific body system of the pest is misleading, as systemic insecticides affect the pest through ingestion rather than directly attacking a specific body system. Describing systemic insecticides as contact poisons is also incorrect; while contact insecticides kill pests immediately upon touching them, systemic insecticides rely on ingestion for their action. Lastly, stating that systemic insecticides are ineffective against pests does not reflect their designed purpose and effectiveness in pest control.