What is one specific method by which pests can build resistance against pesticides?

Pests can develop resistance to pesticides primarily through the overuse of the same pesticide. When a specific pesticide is applied repeatedly, it exerts selective pressure on the pest population. In this context, some individuals within the pest population may have natural genetic variations that make them less susceptible or resistant to that particular pesticide. Over time, as the susceptible pests are eliminated by the pesticide application, the resistant individuals survive and reproduce. This leads to a greater proportion of resistant pests in subsequent generations, rendering the pesticide less effective.

This process highlights the importance of integrated pest management practices, which involve rotating different types of pesticides, using various pest control strategies, and applying pesticides judiciously to mitigate the risk of resistance development. Such strategies help maintain the efficacy of pest control products and delay the emergence of resistant pest populations.