Which category of pests are commonly treated with fumigants?

Fumigants are specifically designed to be effective against a broad range of pests, particularly insects and fungi, which makes this choice the most appropriate. Fumigation involves the use of gaseous pesticides that can penetrate materials and environments where pests may dwell, such as stored grain, soil, or buildings.

Insects, particularly those that are difficult to target with traditional insecticides, are highly responsive to fumigation because the gas can reach all life stages, including larvae, pupae, and adults. Additionally, many types of fungi, including those that can cause spoilage or disease in crops and stored products, can be eliminated through this method.

This treatment method is chosen for its effectiveness in managing infestations that are not easily controlled by more conventional means, making it a vital tool in pest management strategies. Other pest categories, such as terrestrial mammals, weeds, and soil nematodes, require different treatment approaches tailored to their specific biology and ecological interactions.