What is the definition of dormancy in organisms?

Dormancy in organisms refers to a period during which an organism experiences a significant reduction in metabolic processes. This reduction often leads to a halt in growth and activity, allowing the organism to conserve energy and resources during unfavorable environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, drought, or limited food availability.

For example, many plants enter a state of dormancy during winter months, where their growth ceases, and they conserve energy until conditions become favorable again in spring. Similarly, some animal species might enter a state of dormancy or hibernation to survive through periods when food is scarce.

Understanding dormancy is essential for effective management in aquatic pest control, as it influences the lifecycle and behavior of various organisms. By knowing when pests are dormant, practitioners can implement control measures more effectively, targeting the active stages of these organisms instead.