Define the term "resistance" in relation to pests.

Resistance, in relation to pests, refers to the ability of those pests to survive pesticide applications that were previously effective. This phenomenon occurs when individual pests develop genetic traits that allow them to withstand chemical treatments, often due to previous exposure to the chemicals. Over time, and through the process of natural selection, these resistant individuals reproduce, leading to a population that is less susceptible to the effects of the pesticide.

The development of resistance is a significant challenge in pest management because it can render effective pesticides useless, leading to increased pest populations and greater difficulty in controlling them. Resistance often emerges from factors such as the overuse of certain pesticides, inadequate application methods, or the use of the same pesticide class repeatedly, which puts selective pressure on pest populations.

This understanding is critical for developing integrated pest management strategies that incorporate rotations of different types of pesticides, non-chemical control methods, and monitoring pest populations to delay or prevent the development of resistance.