During which stage are pests most susceptible to pesticides?

Pests are most susceptible to pesticides during the larval stage. This is because larvae are often actively feeding and growing, which makes them more vulnerable to the chemicals present in pesticides. At this stage, they are less able to avoid exposure compared to adults, who can often escape and evade treatment. Additionally, larvae may be more physiologically receptive to the mode of action of many pesticides, allowing for more effective absorption and impact on their development.

In contrast, the egg stage typically has limited susceptibility as the eggs are protected by their outer casing, making it difficult for pesticides to penetrate. The adult stage may also present challenges, as adult insects tend to be more mobile and capable of evasion. The pupal stage involves a transformation that limits the impact of pesticides since many are designed to target active life stages and not the dormant pupae. Therefore, targeting the larval stage can be the most effective strategy for pest management, emphasizing the importance of timing in pesticide application.