What is one ecological consequence of pesticide overuse?

The choice indicating the disruption of natural predator-prey relationships accurately reflects a significant ecological consequence of pesticide overuse. When pesticides are applied extensively, they can indiscriminately kill not only the targeted pest species but also beneficial organisms that play crucial roles in the ecosystem, such as natural predators and parasitoids. This disrupts the balance of predator-prey relationships, leading to an increase in pest populations that might have otherwise been kept in check by their natural enemies.

As pests thrive unchecked, this can further exacerbate the problem, creating a cycle that leads to more reliance on chemical treatments, thus perpetuating the issue. In a balanced ecosystem, various organisms interact harmoniously, and when these interactions are disrupted, it can lead to unforeseen consequences, such as increases in pest populations or declines in populations of key predators. Understanding this consequence emphasizes the importance of integrated pest management strategies that consider ecological balance and the roles of all organisms in the environment.