What does a growth regulator do?

A growth regulator is a type of pesticide specifically designed to modify the natural growth processes of plants, insects, or other organisms. In the context of pest management, it functions by disrupting the normal physiological processes, which can include inhibiting growth, altering development or reproduction, or affecting maturation rates in various life stages of pests.

For instance, growth regulators can cause larvae to prematurely stop growing and developing, preventing them from reaching maturity and reproducing. This means they play a crucial role in managing pest populations sustainably without the need for chemical poisons that harm beneficial insects or the environment. Consequently, the correct answer emphasizes the ability of these regulators to significantly influence plant growth and development in both beneficial and pest species, making them a valuable tool in integrated pest management strategies.