Name one sign of pesticide misuse.

Visible damage to non-target plants or wildlife in treated areas is a strong indicator of pesticide misuse. This result occurs when a pesticide intended for a specific pest inadvertently affects other plants or animals in the environment. Pesticides are designed to target specific pests based on their biology, but if they spread beyond their intended application area or if they have a broader spectrum of activity than expected, they can harm beneficial plants, pollinators, or other wildlife. This damage serves as a clear warning sign that the pesticide was not used correctly or as intended, highlighting the importance of following proper application guidelines and considering environmental impacts.

In contrast, increased crop yield, enhanced pest attraction, and greater pest resistance are not directly indicative of misuse. Increased crop yield may reflect proper pesticide application, while enhanced pest attraction and greater resistance signal different issues within pest management strategies rather than misuse itself. Thus, visible damage to non-target organisms is a definitive sign that pesticide application may have deviated from best management practices.