Pest Control Technician Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of non-accumulative pesticides?

1. They are less effective than accumulative types

2. They break down quickly without building up

3. They pose a greater risk to human health

4. They require more frequent applications

The correct answer is: They break down quickly without building up

Non-accumulative pesticides are characterized by their rapid breakdown in the environment, which prevents them from building up in the soil, plants, or animals over time. This means that after they are applied, they degrade quickly due to various factors such as microbial activity, sunlight, and chemical reactions. Consequently, their presence in the ecosystem is temporary, which reduces the risk of long-term toxic effects associated with cumulative pesticides that can persist and accumulate in living organisms. The nature of non-accumulative pesticides allows for limited environmental impact in the long term, making them a preferable choice in many pest management situations, particularly where safety and sustainability are concerns.