Structural Pest Control Applicator Practice Exam

Systemic insecticides are particularly effective because they affect:

1. Only the surface of the plant

2. The entire plant and the pests that consume it

3. Only the roots of the plant

4. Only the soil

The correct answer is: The entire plant and the pests that consume it

Systemic insecticides are unique in their ability to be absorbed by a plant and then transported throughout its tissues. This property allows them to work effectively against pests that feed on various parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers. When a pest ingests a part of the plant that contains the systemic insecticide, it disrupts the pest's physiological processes, often leading to its death. This mode of action differs significantly from contact insecticides, which only target pests present on the plant's surface. Systemic insecticides provide a more comprehensive form of pest control since they target the pests indirectly and can continue to protect the plant over an extended period, even if the pest population arrives later. Additionally, their effectiveness isn't limited to a specific part of the plant, as they act on the entire plant and its associated pest threats. Thus, they are particularly valuable in managing a wide range of insect pests.