What is the function of Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)?

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) are specifically designed to disrupt the normal growth and development processes of certain insects. They act by mimicking hormones that are essential for insect development, thus interfering with the molting process or causing deformities that prevent insects from reaching maturity. By targeting the growth stages of pests, IGRs effectively reduce insect populations over time, as affected insects may be unable to reproduce or can die before reaching maturity.

One of the key advantages of IGRs is their selectivity; they primarily impact insects that undergo metamorphosis, such as flies, beetles, and cockroaches, while having minimal effects on non-target species, including beneficial insects. This makes them a valuable tool in integrated pest management strategies, allowing for long-term control of pest populations without the acute toxicity associated with traditional insecticides.

Other options listed address different pest control methods. For instance, killing pests on contact is a characteristic of traditional insecticides, whereas repelling insects from an area relates more to repellents rather than growth disruption. Enhancing the effectiveness of other insecticides is a tactic employed with adjuvants but is not the primary function of IGRs. The correct answer highlights the specific role of IGRs in managing insect