What is a drawback of excessive pesticide use?

Excessive pesticide use can significantly harm beneficial organisms within the ecosystem. Beneficial organisms, such as pollinators, predators of pest species, and decomposers, play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance and contributing to overall agricultural health. When pesticides are used in large quantities or incorrectly, they can indiscriminately kill not only the target pests but also these essential organisms. This harm can lead to a disruption in the natural pest control services that these organisms provide, potentially resulting in pest population rebounds, reduced crop yields in the long term, and increased reliance on chemical inputs.

In contrast, improved crop yield, enhanced soil fertility, and decrease in pest resistance are not likely outcomes of excessive pesticide use. While improved crop yield may be a temporary benefit from effective pest control, it is not sustainable if the ecosystem is damaged. Enhanced soil fertility involves a healthy microbial community and organic matter, which can be negatively impacted by chemical inputs. Lastly, excessive pesticide use can lead to an increase in pest resistance, as pests can adapt and evolve in response to the chemicals, rendering them less effective over time.