What enhances the activity of a pesticide?

The activity of a pesticide can be enhanced by a synergist, which is a substance that works in conjunction with the pesticide to increase its effectiveness. Synergists can enhance the potency of the pesticide in multiple ways. For example, they may improve its ability to penetrate pest exoskeletons or enhance its mode of action against the target pest, thereby leading to higher mortality rates or greater control.

Synergists do not act as pesticides themselves; instead, they complement the action of the main pesticide ingredient. By modifying the pesticide's effects—either through chemical interaction or by promoting better absorption and distribution within the target organism—synergists can significantly improve overall pest management strategies.

Other types of substances, such as adjuvants, may also play a role in enhancing pesticide effectiveness. However, adjuvants are typically included to improve application characteristics rather than directly amplifying the pesticide’s biological action. Absorbents and inhibitors serve different purposes, either helping to manage formulation stability or inhibiting enzyme or biological activity, which does not enhance the pesticide's effectiveness in the same manner as a synergist.