What is a common consequence of using pesticides excessively?

The consequence of using pesticides excessively is primarily pest resistance. When pesticides are applied repeatedly over time, some pests may survive due to genetic variations that make them less susceptible to the chemicals. Those survivors reproduce, leading to a population that is increasingly resistant to the pesticide. This can create a cycle where stronger or higher concentrations of pesticides need to be used to manage the pest populations effectively, further exacerbating the resistance issue.

In contrast, increased biodiversity is typically associated with conservation practices rather than excessive pesticide use, as over-reliance on chemicals often leads to a more uniform environment that supports fewer species. Improved crop yield may occur in the short term through effective pest control, but it is not a direct consequence of excessive pesticide usage, which can lead to long-term agricultural problems. Lastly, while excessive pesticide use can indeed reduce non-target species, this is typically a negative ecological impact rather than a desired consequence of using pesticides.