What is the primary advantage of using insect growth regulators (IGRs)?

The primary advantage of using insect growth regulators (IGRs) is that they disrupt the normal development of insects. IGRs function by mimicking natural hormones in insects, which affects their growth and development processes. This interference can prevent the insects from successfully maturing to adulthood, ultimately reducing their population over time. By targeting the developmental stages rather than outright killing insects instantly, IGRs can result in lower risks to non-target species and beneficial insects, contributing to more sustainable pest management practices.

The mechanism of action makes IGRs particularly effective in controlling pests that have distinct life stages, as they can halt the progression from larvae to pupae or from pupae to adults. This not only helps in managing pest populations but also minimizes the potential for resistance development often seen with conventional insecticides.