How does global trade affect pest management strategies?

Global trade significantly influences pest management strategies by introducing new pests and diseases to regions where they may not have previously existed. This movement of goods across borders can inadvertently transport insects and pathogens, resulting in infestations that local ecosystems and agricultural practices may not be prepared to handle.

When new pests are introduced, they can disrupt local agricultural systems, as native pest control measures and natural predators may not be equipped to deal with these newcomers. This situation necessitates the development of updated strategies that may include improved monitoring, the application of different pesticides, or the adoption of integrated pest management practices that account for a broader range of threats to crops.

In contrast, the other options present a misunderstanding of the relationship between global trade and pest management. The assertion that global trade only affects crop prices overlooks the ecological and agricultural impacts of pest introduction. Similarly, the claim that trade allows for the elimination of older pest species ignores the fact that newly introduced pests can often outcompete or displace native species, rather than eliminating them. Lastly, stating that trade has no impact on pest management practices fails to recognize the complexities and the dynamic nature of agricultural ecosystems that are altered by the introduction of foreign pests. Thus, the correct answer highlights the critical need for adaptive pest management strategies in response