What type of pesticide is primarily used for controlling pathogens in plants?

Fungicides are the type of pesticide primarily used for controlling pathogens in plants, specifically fungal pathogens. These agents work by targeting the various life stages of fungi, preventing their growth or killing them, which helps protect plants from diseases caused by these pathogens. Fungicides can be applied to the soil, seeds, or foliage and are essential in managing both commercial crops and home gardens to ensure plant health and productivity.

In contrast, insecticides are designed to control insect pests, herbicides target unwanted plants or weeds, and sanitizers are used to reduce bacteria and viruses on surfaces rather than in plant health management. Therefore, when it comes to addressing pathogenic threats in plants, fungicides are the appropriate choice.