What term describes a pest like aphids that may become problematic after the application of insecticides?

The term "Secondary Pest" refers to pests that may proliferate or become problematic following the application of insecticides targeting primary pests. When insecticides are used, they can significantly reduce the population of the primary pests, which often allows secondary pests, like aphids, to thrive due to reduced competition and a lack of natural predators that may have also been affected by the pesticide.

This phenomenon is crucial for pest management strategies, as it highlights the importance of understanding the ecological balance within pest populations and recognizing that controlling one pest can inadvertently lead to the rise of another if not managed properly. Understanding this concept allows pest control professionals to implement more sustainable practices, such as integrated pest management, to minimize the risk of secondary outbreaks.