Final answer:
The subject covering the application of pesticides on seasonal crops is Biology, particularly in the field of agriculture and environmental science. IPM stands for Integrated Pest Management, an ecologically based pest control practice that emphasizes reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides.
Step-by-step explanation:
The application of pesticides on seasonal crops is generally covered under the subject of Biology, particularly in the context of agriculture and environmental science. The use of pesticides is a part of crop protection strategies that seek to manage pests and diseases that can affect crop yields.
In crop protection, IPM stands for Integrated Pest Management. This approach to managing pests incorporates a mix of farmer-driven, ecologically-based pest control practices. IPM strategies aim to reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides by (a) keeping pest populations below economically damaging levels, (b) relying on non-chemical measures whenever possible, and (c) using pesticides judiciously to minimize adverse effects on beneficial organisms, human health, and the environment.
- Chemical pest management can be effective and adaptable.
- Overuse of pesticides can lead to ecological issues such as the destruction of natural predators and the emergence of pesticide-resistant pests.
- Ecologically based control measures are emphasized within IPM as part of sustainable agriculture, sometimes using pesticides as a "last resort".