What is a pest?

A pest is typically defined as an organism that competes with humans for food, fiber, or resources, leading to negative impacts on agriculture, health, or the environment. This definition encompasses not only insects but also rodents and other organisms that can harm crops, spread disease, or otherwise interfere with human activities.

While some organisms play beneficial roles in agriculture, such as aiding in pollination or serving as companions, the specific context of a pest focuses on its detrimental effects. Thus, the notion of competition for food and fiber aligns with the common understanding of a pest's role in ecological systems and agricultural practices.