What does it mean when an organism is described as resistant to a pesticide?

When an organism is described as resistant to a pesticide, it means that the organism is uninjured or unaffected by that specific pesticide, even when it is applied at recommended dosages. This resistance can arise due to various factors, including genetic adaptations over time, which allow the organism to survive exposure to the pesticide that would typically be harmful or lethal to non-resistant individuals.

Understanding resistance is crucial in pest management because it indicates that the organism can continue to exist and reproduce in environments where the pesticide is applied, undermining the effectiveness of pest control strategies. This phenomenon highlights the importance of integrating multiple approaches in pest management to manage resistant populations effectively.