What does 'non-selective' pesticide refer to?

The term 'non-selective' pesticide refers to products that are designed to kill a wide range of pests, including both beneficial organisms and harmful ones. These pesticides do not differentiate between the types of pests they target, meaning they can eliminate all plant or animal species they come into contact with. This characteristic makes them highly effective for controlling invasive species or extensive infestations but also raises concerns about the impact on beneficial insects, wildlife, and the environment.

In contrast, the other definitions do not accurately describe non-selective pesticides. Pesticides that only kill insects are considered selective, focusing on a specific group rather than acting on all pests. Pesticides that are safe for humans do not necessarily identify their selectivity toward other organisms; they may still harm beneficial species. Finally, biodegradability pertains to the breakdown of pesticides in the environment and is unrelated to their target spectrum.