What type of pesticides are designed to control pests for weeks, months, or even years?

Residual pesticides are specifically formulated to remain active in the environment for extended periods, often weeks, months, or even years. This longevity allows them to continue affecting target pests even after the initial application, making them effective for controlling populations over time.

In contrast, contact pesticides generally require direct contact with pests to be effective and do not have lasting effects once they degrade. Biological pesticides utilize natural organisms or substances to control pests and may not provide the same long-term control as residual options. Systemic pesticides are absorbed by plants and then act within the plant, which may not guarantee long-term pest control in the surrounding environment.

The ability of residual pesticides to persist and maintain efficacy makes them particularly valuable in integrated pest management, as they can reduce the need for frequent reapplications and help manage pest resistance.