A pest that becomes a serious problem when a key pest is controlled is known as what?

The term that describes a pest which becomes a significant issue when a key pest is controlled is known as a secondary pest. This category of pests may not pose a severe threat in normal conditions, but their populations can explode when the primary pest—the main target of pest control efforts—is reduced or eliminated. This phenomenon often occurs because the primary pest has been keeping the secondary pest population in check through competition, predation, or other ecological interactions.

Understanding the dynamics between primary and secondary pests is crucial for pest management strategies. It underscores the importance of a holistic approach in pest control, as simply targeting one pest without considering potential repercussions can lead to unintended consequences, such as the emergence of secondary pests.