What is the main purpose of an insect growth regulator?

The primary purpose of an insect growth regulator (IGR) is to interfere with the life cycle of insects. IGRs are synthetic compounds that mimic the hormones in insects responsible for regulating development and growth. By disrupting these hormonal processes, IGRs can prevent insects from maturing into adults or reproducing, effectively controlling pest populations over time.

This mechanism allows IGRs to target specific developmental stages of insects without necessarily killing them outright, which differentiates them from traditional insecticides that aim to eliminate adult insects through direct toxicity. The focus on lifecycle interruption makes IGRs an effective tool in integrated pest management strategies, contributing to long-term control of pest populations.

Other options, while related to pest management, do not accurately describe the unique function of IGRs. Killing adult insects is typically the role of conventional insecticides rather than IGRs, which target development. Repelling insects and enhancing plant growth also address different aspects of pest management and plant care, further differentiating the specific role of IGRs.