Georgia Pest Control Practice Test

Which Mode of Action Main Group Category affects an insect's ability to molt?

1. Muscle action

2. Insect growth regulation

3. Chitin synthesis inhibitor

4. Energy metabolism

The correct answer is: Chitin synthesis inhibitor

The mode of action that affects an insect's ability to molt is categorized under chitin synthesis inhibitors. Chitin is a crucial component of the insect exoskeleton, and it plays a significant role in the molting process. When a chitin synthesis inhibitor is applied, it disrupts the normal production of chitin, preventing proper formation of a new exoskeleton during the molting phase. This can lead to various detrimental effects on the insect, such as inability to successfully molt, which ultimately can result in death or incomplete development. The other main group categories, while affecting different physiological processes in insects, do not specifically target molting mechanisms. Muscle action influences movement and muscle function, insect growth regulation covers hormonal changes that can impact growth but does not directly interfere with chitin production, and energy metabolism relates to how insects obtain and utilize energy for their functions. However, none of these categories specifically inhibit the molting process as chitin synthesis inhibitors do.