In what way does a selective pesticide function?

A selective pesticide is designed to target specific pests while minimizing harm to non-target species, including beneficial insects, plants, and animals. The underlying principle is the pesticide's ability to affect certain physiological or behavioral aspects of the targeted pests, such as their metabolism, growth, or reproduction, which are not present in the non-target organisms.

This selectivity is crucial in integrated pest management practices, as it allows for the control of harmful organisms while preserving beneficial ones that contribute to ecological balance, such as pollinators and natural pest predators. Proper use of selective pesticides can help reduce the potential for resistance development in pests and lessen the environmental impact of pesticide application.

The other options either imply a broader scope of action that does not accurately reflect the nature of selective pesticides, or they focus on specific application methods that are not inherently required for selective pesticides, thereby leading to confusion regarding their function and intended use.