What is a potential consequence of pesticide misuse?

Pest resistance development is a notable consequence of pesticide misuse. When pesticides are applied inappropriately, such as using them at ineffective rates, improper timing, or not following label instructions, it can lead to certain pests surviving the application. These surviving pests may reproduce and pass on their resistant traits to the next generation. Over time, this can result in a population of pests that is more difficult to control because they have evolved resistance to the pesticides that were once effective.

This issue not only complicates pest management strategies but can also lead to increased pesticide use over time, as applicators may resort to higher doses or new, potentially more harmful chemicals to manage the resistant pest populations. The cycle of resistance contributes to a long-term challenge for agriculture, ecology, and public health, necessitating more integrated pest management strategies.

The other choices do not relate to the consequences of pesticide misuse as directly. Increased crop yields and enhanced soil quality are typically positive outcomes from proper pesticide application, while stronger pest populations may occur under certain circumstances, but they do not encapsulate the significant concern of resistance development in the way that pest resistance does.