What is a pest?

• A. A living organism that causes damage, injury, or nuisance.
• B. An organism that provides pollination.
• C. A non-living factor that damages crops.
• D. A beneficial soil microorganism.

Answer: (A)

A pest is a living organism that causes damage, injury, or nuisance to crops, animals, humans, or structures. This definition includes things like insects that feed on crops, weeds that compete with plants for resources, fungi or bacteria that cause disease, and rodents that damage stored products. Because pests are living, they’re the targets of pest management strategies aimed at reducing harm and protecting health and yields.

Think of why the other options don’t fit: an organism that provides pollination is beneficial and helps crops, not a pest. A non-living factor that damages crops is an abiotic stress (like drought or nutrient deficiency), not a pest. A beneficial soil microorganism helps plants rather than causing harm, so it isn’t a pest either.