What is the primary use of an insecticide?

The primary use of an insecticide is to kill insects. Insecticides are specifically designed chemical substances that target insects, either by disrupting their biological processes or by causing direct mortality. This can involve a variety of actions, such as interfering with the nervous system of insects, causing dehydration, or blocking metabolic pathways essential for their survival.

Understanding the targeted nature of insecticides is crucial in pest management, as they help control pest populations that may be harmful to crops, human health, or structures. This targeted approach distinguishes insecticides from other agricultural chemicals such as fertilizers, which promote plant growth, or soil amendments, which enhance soil fertility. Unlike insecticides, these substances serve different functions and do not have inherent insecticidal properties.

In addition, while some substances may promote the attraction of beneficial organisms, this is not the primary goal of an insecticide. The focus remains strictly on managing pest populations effectively to mitigate their negative impacts.