Cross-resistance

Definition

Cross-resistance refers to the phenomenon where an organism that has developed resistance to one substance also exhibits resistance to another substance, often due to shared mechanisms of action or similar chemical structures. This is particularly relevant in the context of pesticides, where pests may become resistant not only to a specific pesticide but also to others that have similar modes of action, complicating pest management strategies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cross-resistance can significantly reduce the effectiveness of pest control strategies as it limits the options available for managing resistant populations.
2. The development of cross-resistance often occurs when pests are exposed repeatedly to the same pesticide class, leading to evolutionary pressure for survival.
3. Understanding cross-resistance is crucial for developing integrated pest management (IPM) practices that rotate different classes of pesticides to minimize resistance risk.
4. Not all pests exhibit cross-resistance; susceptibility can vary based on the specific genetic and environmental context of the pest population.
5. Research into cross-resistance helps in identifying potential future issues with new pesticides before they are widely used in agricultural settings.

Review Questions

• How does cross-resistance impact the effectiveness of pesticide use in agriculture?
  • Cross-resistance can severely undermine the effectiveness of pesticide applications in agriculture because when pests develop resistance to one pesticide, they may also be resistant to others with similar modes of action. This results in fewer effective control options, making it more challenging for farmers to manage pest populations. Consequently, reliance on a limited number of pesticides increases the likelihood of pest outbreaks and can lead to economic losses in crop production.
• Evaluate the implications of cross-resistance for resistance management strategies in pest control.
  • The implications of cross-resistance for resistance management are significant as it necessitates a more diversified approach to pest control. Strategies must incorporate rotating different classes of pesticides with varying modes of action to effectively manage resistant populations. Additionally, integrating cultural practices and biological controls alongside chemical methods becomes essential in minimizing reliance on any single method, thereby slowing down the development of resistance and prolonging the efficacy of existing pesticides.
• Assess how understanding cross-resistance can influence future pesticide development and regulatory practices.
  • Understanding cross-resistance is vital for influencing both future pesticide development and regulatory practices. By recognizing patterns of resistance across different substances, researchers can design new pesticides that target distinct mechanisms, reducing the risk of cross-resistance emergence. Regulatory agencies may also implement stricter guidelines for pesticide usage based on resistance data, encouraging sustainable practices that mitigate resistance and ensuring that agricultural producers have access to effective tools while protecting crop yields and food security.

Related terms

Resistance Management:

A strategic approach aimed at preventing or delaying the development of resistance in pest populations by using various techniques and practices.

Pesticide Tolerance: The maximum allowable level of pesticide residue that can remain on food or feed products, which can be influenced by resistance development in pest populations.

Mode of Action: The specific biochemical interaction through which a pesticide affects a pest, which can lead to resistance if pests evolve mechanisms to counteract this action.