What is the definition of a bio-rational pesticide?

A bio-rational pesticide is defined as a type of pesticide designed to target specific pests while minimizing harm to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, wildlife, and humans. This approach emphasizes safety and specificity, often utilizing biological or ecological principles to achieve pest control without broad-spectrum toxicity. Bio-rational pesticides often include materials derived from natural sources, such as plants or microorganisms, and may work through mechanisms that interfere with the development or behavior of pests rather than through outright toxicity.

This distinction is crucial in sustainable pest management, as it encourages the reduction of chemical residues in the environment and supports the conservation of beneficial species that contribute to ecosystem health. The specific targeting of harmful organisms helps to maintain a balanced ecosystem, which is a key principle in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.