Which best describes hormones as applied in pest control?

Hormones, when applied in the context of pest control, refer to naturally occurring substances that play a crucial role in regulating various biological processes, including growth and development in insects. These hormones can be used strategically in pest management to disrupt the normal growth patterns of pests, leading to effective control measures.

For example, synthetic versions of these hormones can be utilized to interfere with the life cycle of pests, such as preventing molting or transformation into adult stages. By mimicking or altering the natural hormonal signals, pest control strategies can target specific developmental stages or disrupt reproductive cycles, thereby reducing pest populations without the broad-spectrum impact of traditional insecticides.

This approach aligns with integrated pest management principles, focusing on minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. The other options presented do not accurately capture the primary role of hormones in pest control. For instance, describing hormones as synthetic pollutants does not recognize their natural function in biological systems, and characterizing them solely as chemical compounds that kill insects overlooks their regulatory roles. Similarly, equating hormones with materials that increase soil fertility is not relevant, as hormones target pest development rather than soil management.