What does selectivity mean with respect to pesticides?

Selectivity in the context of pesticides refers to the ability of a pesticide to target specific organisms while minimizing effects on others. A pesticide can be considered selective if it effectively controls certain pests, such as weeds, insects, or fungal diseases, without adversely impacting non-target organisms, including beneficial species, pets, or humans. This characteristic allows for more precise and environmentally friendly pest management strategies.

The option that indicates that pesticides can be selective or non-selective accurately captures this concept. Selective pesticides, for example, are designed to kill certain types of weeds without harming crops, whereas non-selective pesticides can kill a wide range of plants and animals indiscriminately. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective pesticide application, as it allows for targeted treatments that minimize ecological disruption while maintaining pest control efficacy.