What does "resistance" refer to in the context of pest management?

In pest management, "resistance" specifically refers to the ability of a pest to survive exposure to pesticides that would normally be effective in controlling them. This phenomenon arises when pests undergo genetic changes that enable them to withstand the effects of chemical treatments. Over time, as pesticides are repeatedly applied, those pests that have resistance traits may survive and reproduce, leading to a population that is increasingly difficult to manage. This can complicate pest control efforts as traditional methods may no longer be effective, necessitating the development of new strategies or the use of different chemicals. Understanding resistance is crucial for pest management professionals in order to plan effective control measures and to delay the development of resistance in pest populations.