What are some risks associated with insect pest outbreaks?

Insect pest outbreaks present significant risks, primarily related to crop damage and health hazards. When insect populations surge, they can cause considerable harm to agricultural crops by feeding on plants, which can lead to reduced yields and economic losses for farmers. Such damage may not only affect the quantity of the crops but also their quality, rendering them less marketable or even unfit for consumption.

Additionally, certain pests are vectors for diseases that can impact human health and livestock. For example, mosquitoes can transmit viruses like West Nile or Zika, while other insects may carry pathogens that affect food safety. This leads to public health risks and can create additional burdens on healthcare systems.

The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of insect pest outbreaks. Minor inconveniences do not encompass the seriousness of the situation, while environmental enrichment and increased biodiversity are generally seen as positive outcomes, whereas outbreaks typically lead to adverse effects on the ecosystem.