What is the role of insect growth regulators (IGRs) in pest control?

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) play a crucial role in pest control by disrupting the normal development processes of insects. By mimicking the hormones that are responsible for regulating growth and development, IGRs interfere with the insects' natural life cycle. This interference can prevent immature insects from maturing into adults, which in turn limits their ability to reproduce. As a result, the population of the targeted pest declines over time.

The effectiveness of IGRs is significant because they can target specific developmental stages of insects, making them less harmful to beneficial insects and other non-target species. They are particularly useful in integrated pest management practices, where reducing the population of pests without using harsh chemicals is desired.

Other options describe functions that are either inaccurate or not related to the primary mechanism of IGRs. For example, enhancing reproductive capabilities is contrary to the primary action of IGRs, as their purpose is to reduce reproduction. Similarly, attracting pests to traps relates more to pheromones or bait rather than to the functions of IGRs, and promoting faster growth rates contradicts the intention of IGRs to inhibit growth. Overall, the primary function of IGRs as inhibitors of maturation and reproduction is what makes them a valuable tool in pest management