Final answer:
Pesticide cross-resistance occurs when a pest becomes resistant to one class of pesticides and consequently to other classes, potentially due to shared detoxification mechanisms. Using ecologically based control measures and considering biopesticides are essential strategies for managing pest resistance and minimizing environmental impact. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pesticide cross-resistance refers to a scenario where a pest develops resistance to a class of pesticides, and as a result, also becomes resistant to other classes of pesticides that may have a different mode of action.
This phenomenon can occur when the mechanisms that confer resistance to pests are not specific to a single type of pesticide. For example, an insect that has developed mechanisms to detoxify a certain pesticide might also be able to detoxify other pesticides that it has never encountered before.
In managing pests, it is important to consider ecologically based control measures and use pesticides as a last resort. When pesticides are necessary, utilizing biodegradable and non-persistent products is crucial to minimize environmental disruption, favoring targeted application methods.
One approach to pest control without using synthetic chemicals is the use of biopesticides, which often consist of microbial pesticides, biochemical pesticides, and plant-derived products such as pyrethroids and rotenoids.
These compounds are biodegradable and serve as part of the organic farming systems, often proving to be econimically and environmentally friendly alternatives. The correct option is c.