Which of these practices can help minimize pesticide resistance?

Rotating between different pesticide classes is an effective practice for minimizing pesticide resistance because it prevents pests from becoming accustomed to a specific mode of action. Each pesticide class functions differently, targeting unique biological pathways or mechanisms within the pest population. When a single class is used repeatedly, pests may develop resistance over time due to natural selection; those individuals with genetic mutations that confer resistance survive and reproduce, leading to a population that is increasingly difficult to control with that pesticide.

By rotating classes, you introduce varied mechanisms of action that can effectively target the pests without allowing them to adapt. This diverse approach not only reduces the chances of resistance developing but also extends the effectiveness of chemical control methods, leading to more sustainable pest management practices.

In contrast, using the same pesticide repeatedly can significantly increase the likelihood of resistance, as mentioned earlier. Applying at higher doses does not address the underlying issue of resistance diversity among pest populations. Lastly, while using pesticides as a last resort is a good integrative pest management approach, it does not directly relate to the minimization of pesticide resistance.