What type of inhibitor kills immature insects by interfering with their growth and molting?

The correct answer is that a chitin synthesis inhibitor kills immature insects by interfering with their growth and molting. Chitin is a crucial component of the exoskeleton of insects, and it is the substance that provides structural support and protection. Chitin synthesis inhibitors work by disrupting the production of chitin during the molting process, effectively preventing the insect from developing properly as it grows.

When an insect goes through its life cycle, it periodically molts, shedding its old exoskeleton to allow for growth. If a chitin synthesis inhibitor is present, the immature insect either cannot produce enough chitin for a successful molt or cannot produce it at all. This leads to problems such as deformities or mortality in the immature stages, thereby controlling the population of pests.

In contrast, growth regulators affect overall development and may not directly kill the insect by preventing molting. Neurotoxins target the nervous system and can be effective against various life stages but do not specifically interfere with the molting process. Cytokinins are plant hormones involved in cell division and growth, and they do not play a role in insect growth inhibition. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify how different substances affect pest control strategies.