What are the three main categories of pesticides?

In the context of pesticide classification, the three main categories recognized are insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides.

Insecticides target insect pests and play a critical role in managing populations of harmful insects that can damage crops, spread diseases, or invade structures. Herbicides are specifically designed to control unwanted plants or weeds, which can compete with desirable crops for resources like water, sunlight, and nutrients. Fungicides are employed to manage fungal diseases that can adversely affect plant health and yields.

These categories encompass a wide range of products formulated to tackle specific pest issues, making them essential tools in agricultural practices, horticulture, and pest management strategies. Each of these categories serves a distinct function, highlighting the diversity and specificity of pesticide formulations tailored to address particular pest-related challenges. This classification aids users in selecting the right type of pesticide to effectively manage specific pests while minimizing environmental impact.