Georgia Pest Control Practice Test

Insect growth regulators particularly affect which life stage of insects?

1. Adults

2. Eggs

3. Larvae

4. Pupae

The correct answer is: Larvae

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) are specifically designed to interfere with the normal growth and development processes of insects. They mimic hormones that regulate various stages of an insect's life cycle, particularly affecting the molting processes. IGRs are most effective during the larval stage, as it is during this phase that insects are actively growing and undergoing transformations that require hormonal control. During the larval stage, IGRs can prevent larvae from transitioning into their next life stage, inhibiting them from maturing into pupae and eventually into adults. This disruption in development is critical because it can lead to a reduction in the overall population by preventing the emergence of reproductive adults. While IGRs can have some effects on the pupal stage, their primary action is geared toward the larvae, making this life stage the most impacted. Thus, the correct answer highlights the target stage where IGRs exert their most significant influence, showcasing their role in pest control strategies that aim to manage populations by disrupting developmental processes.